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How local councils work in England - types of council, decision-making, council finances, local councillors and making complaints

• Types of council

  This guide relates to councils in England. Find information about councils…

• Decision making

  The full council (a meeting of all council members) is responsible for all…

• Spending and accounts

  Many local councils provide information on their websites to show how they…

• Local councillors and elections

  Local councillors are elected for 4-year terms by the local community to…

• Make a complaint

  If you feel that a council service has not been properly delivered, you…

Decide which activities are business or non-business for VAT purposes if you're a local authority or other public body.

• Updated: 4 March 2024

Guidance for local authorities in England who are considering adopting a 4-day working week.

• Updated: 26 October 2023

Guidance primarily aimed at local responders covering some humanitarian issues that may arise during the recovery phase of an emergency in the UK.

• Updated: 20 February 2013

Guidance primarily aimed at local responders covering some common issues that may arise during the Recovery Phase of an emergency in the UK.

• Updated: 26 March 2013

How can communications network providers work constructively with local authorities?

• Updated: 20 December 2018

• Updated: 4 March 2024

Building relationships and improving compliance with environmental health, trading standards and fire safety legislation through Primary Authority.

• Updated: 27 February 2018

This information is for local authority staff who process claims and administer Housing Benefit, including Local Housing Allowance.

• Updated: 17 October 2013

Guidance for local authorities on how to access the local government income compensation scheme for lost sales, fees and charges as a result of COVID-19.

• Updated: 12 November 2021