What are the powers of local and devolved government and how can citizens participate?

Understand the primary roles and responsibilities of local government, which include providing local services such as education, housing, and waste management.
Recognise that local governments work closely with central government and have the power to levy taxes for the provision of local services.
They exert influence through local policies and regulations, especially in areas like planning and development.
Note that they have a statutory requirement to consult with their residents on various issues - this is a form of citizen participation.

Recognise that devolved governments exist in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, each with a varying degree of power devolved from the UK Parliament.
Grasp that they have the power to make legislation in devolved areas such as education, health, and transport. But they cannot make decisions on reserved matters like defense and foreign affairs, which remain a responsibility of the UK Parliament.
The UK Parliament retains the power to overrule the decisions of devolved governments, though it does not typically use this power.
Unlike local governments, they also have some powers over taxation and welfare.

Understand that citizens can participate by voting in local and devolved elections.
Those of voting age can also stand for election to become a councillor or a Member of the devolved Parliaments or Assemblies.
Citizens can contribute by participating in consultations when local governments are considering new policies or plans.
They can contact their local or devolved representatives to express views, ask questions or seek assistance with a problem.
They can also get involved with local campaigns or start a petition on an issue of concern.
Note the importance of public scrutiny in holding local and devolved governments to account through meetings, reports, and local media coverage.