Local councils are all about delivering positive outcomes for the people and communities they serve. The best councils do this by looking outwards as well as in. They involve people and communities, share their expertise, learn lessons from others, maximise the value of partnerships and deliver great value for money.

Their boundaries are not restricted to a line on the map. Their horizons for the most effective development of their localities are international. Just as they understand the need for their localities to be competitive, attractive and vibrant in global terms, so they understand the value of interacting at an international level.

Engaging in international development activities not only delivers a two-way benefits – to councils and communities in the UK and overseas – it also contributes to the raising of the game of local government worldwide.

What's in it for UK councils & communities?

Sharing Skills & Good Practice - mutual benefits can be gained by both UK and overseas councils from promoting technical cooperation and sharing good practice

Improving working relations - with local organisations (both public & private) through close involvement in joint activities.

Staff development & motivation - such as improving the capacity of staff to work in difficult circumstances, building interpersonal, communication and project management skills.

Increasing awareness of development & cultural diversity - via school partnerships, development education seminars, cultural events, campaign activities, work placements etc.

Improving partnerships with different ethnic groups - through building cultural understanding, understanding local needs, promoting the contribution of ethnic groups to the local community.

Take a look at our resources below to find out more about what UK councils are doing and why you should get involved:

Council Case Studies

Map of UK activities

Prospectus for Local Government Engagement

Interaction Factsheet: bringing benefits home

Interaction toolkit