Local Authority - Project Open Gov

A local government body responsible for services in a particular area.

Category: Welfare and public services

Abbreviation: LA

Also used as: local authority, local authorities, council, councils

Source / explainer: Find a local council on GOV.UK

Last reviewed: 3 August 2026

A local authority is a local government body responsible for services in a particular area. Depending on the type of authority, responsibilities can include social care, education, housing, planning, waste, transport and local public health. The term appears frequently in summaries involving SEND, social care, housing, planning and local services.

Related terms

Education, Health and Care PlanA legal plan setting out support for a child or young person with special educational needs and disabilities.Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local GovernmentThe UK Government department responsible for housing, local government, communities and planning policy in England.Special Educational Needs and DisabilitiesSupport needs affecting a child or young person’s learning, development, health or access to education.