Local and Central Government
Virtue understands the role of local and central government, their scope to focus on the range of services for which they are responsible. However, it is important to recognise the context in which local authorities deliver those services. Local government is not just a vehicle for delivering services – it is also the democratically elected body representing local voters, and as such, has a responsibility for promoting general well-being in the community.
• Building and shaping local identity;
• representing the community;
• regulating harmful and disruptive behaviours;
• maintaining the cohesiveness of the community and supporting debate within it, ensuring smaller voices are heard;
• helping to resolve disagreements;
• working to make the local economy more successful while being sensitive to pressures on the environment;
• understanding local needs and preferences and making sure that the right services are provided to local people; and
• working with other bodies to response to complex challenges such as natural disasters and other emergencies.
Hencel government is not only responsible for service delivery – it also has a wider responsibility for leadership and coordination of all government activities that influence outcomes for the local community. This wider role has increasing importance in shaping the direction which developments in local government are taking.







