The unit 'Joining in' in the Discovering Democracy School Materials Project develops lesson plans for students to investigate the kinds, structures and functions of groups in the community. The unit examines ways that people participate in these groups and the reasons they participate. Students are given opportunities to make links between community groups and how local government supports them. Local Councils' Services Local councils help the community in many ways. Looking after the environment Councils are responsible for looking after the parts of the community that are public property - for example roads and parks.
Councils build and repair roads and provide some car parks.
Planning is an important part of the work of councils. For example, councils decide where new roads, houses and shops should go and where natural areas are to be protected. Plans for all new buildings are approved by the council. Councils also preserve historic places. Councils arrange for rubbish to be collected and for waste to be recycled.