The National Association of Local Councils firmly believes that local councils are an excellent way for local people to affect real change within their communities. A local council gives the community more control over their environment and can be the channel through which the desires of local people can be delivered. Local councils do not bear any resemblance to long outdated stereotypes and form an important part of local government, representing the local community, delivering services to meet local needs and striving to improve the quality of life in a community. Local councils provide, maintain or contribute to a diverse range of services on behalf of local people. Local councils drive projects both big and small dependent on the wishes of local people, this includes the provision of first class arts and community centres, provision for both younger and older members of the community, street cleaning, street lighting, community safety schemes, crime reduction measures, the list goes on and on. Check out the Publications section of our website (booklets and resources) for a taste of the kinds of activities that local councils undertake.