ABSTRACT
Local councils are led by elected councillors who are voted for by local people. Advised by paid officials, councillors make the major decisions on the services the council provides, oversee how those services are run and represent the interests of people in their division or ward (the area they are elected to represent). They are normally elected every four years in local elections. This element of democracy is key, ensuring public accountability and scrutiny, and distinguishes councils from some other public bodies, such as the NHS.
