Liverpool
Local Government Services
Access to Liverpool City Council services, registrations, and community support programs.
Sections
1. Housing Services
Liverpool City Council provides housing services to support residents in finding affordable housing, managing council housing, and addressing homelessness.
Key Services:
- Council Housing: Affordable housing managed by the council.
- Housing Benefits: Financial support for low-income individuals to pay rent.
- Homelessness Support: Emergency housing and advice for those at risk of homelessness.
Costs:
- Council housing rents vary depending on the property size and location.
- Housing benefits are means-tested and depend on income and circumstances.
How to Access:
- Visit the Housing Options Service at:
Address: St Johnโs Market, 6th Floor, 151 Dale Street, Liverpool, L2 2DH
Phone: 0151 233 3069
Website: Liverpool City Council Housing - Applications for council housing can be made online via the Property Pool Plus system.
Local Considerations:
- Liverpool has a mix of council housing and private rental properties. Waiting times for council housing can be long due to high demand.
- Immigrants may need to provide proof of residency and immigration status to access housing benefits.
2. Waste Management and Recycling
Liverpool City Council manages waste collection, recycling, and street cleaning services.
Key Services:
- Household Waste Collection: Weekly or fortnightly bin collections.
- Recycling Services: Separate bins for general waste, recycling, and garden waste.
- Bulky Waste Collection: Removal of large items like furniture or appliances.
Costs:
- General waste and recycling collections are free.
- Bulky waste collection costs ยฃ30 for up to 5 items.
How to Access:
- Check your bin collection schedule online at the councilโs website.
- Book bulky waste collection via the councilโs website or by calling 0151 233 3001.
Local Considerations:
- Liverpool encourages recycling, so ensure you separate waste correctly. Fines may be issued for improper disposal.
- Public recycling points are available across the city for glass, textiles, and electronics.
3. Education Services
Liverpool offers a range of educational services, from early years to adult education, managed by the council and local schools.
Key Services:
- Primary and Secondary Schools: Free education for children aged 4-18.
- Special Educational Needs (SEN): Support for children with disabilities or learning difficulties.
- Adult Education: Courses for skill development, including English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL).
Costs:
- Public schools are free for residents.
- Adult education courses may have fees, but concessions are available for low-income individuals.
How to Access:
- Apply for school places online via the councilโs School Admissions portal.
- For adult education, visit the Liverpool Adult Learning Service website or contact local colleges.
Local Considerations:
- School admissions are competitive, so apply early.
- Immigrant families may need to provide proof of address and immigration status for school applications.
4. Health and Social Care
Liverpool provides comprehensive health and social care services, including support for vulnerable individuals and families.
Key Services:
- NHS Services: Free healthcare through the National Health Service.
- Social Care: Support for the elderly, disabled, and those with mental health needs.
- Childrenโs Services: Safeguarding and family support.
Costs:
- NHS services are free for UK residents and those with settled or pre-settled status.
- Social care services may involve means-tested contributions.
How to Access:
- Register with a local GP (General Practitioner) for healthcare services.
- Contact the councilโs Careline Service for social care support:
Phone: 0151 233 3800
Website: Liverpool Social Care
Local Considerations:
- Immigrants may need to provide proof of residency to access free NHS services.
- Liverpool has a strong community focus, with many charities and volunteer groups offering additional support.
5. Libraries and Cultural Services
Liverpoolโs libraries and cultural institutions are hubs for learning, creativity, and community engagement.
Key Services:
- Public Libraries: Free access to books, computers, and study spaces.
- Cultural Events: Workshops, exhibitions, and performances.
- Archives and Records: Access to historical documents and genealogy resources.
Costs:
- Library membership is free.
- Some workshops and events may have small fees.
How to Access:
- Visit your nearest library to register for a library card. Major libraries include:
- Central Library: William Brown Street, Liverpool, L3 8EW
- Toxteth Library: Windsor Street, Liverpool, L8 1XF
- Check the councilโs website for event listings.
Local Considerations:
- Liverpool has a rich cultural heritage, and libraries often host events celebrating the cityโs history and diversity.
6. Transportation Services
Liverpool has an extensive public transport network, including buses, trains, and ferries.
Key Services:
- Merseytravel: Manages public transport in the Liverpool City Region.
- Bus Services: Operated by Arriva and Stagecoach.
- Merseyrail: Local train services connecting Liverpool to surrounding areas.
Costs:
- Single bus fares: Around ยฃ2.20.
- Weekly travel passes: From ยฃ19.50 (for unlimited bus travel).
- Merseyrail tickets: Prices vary by distance.
How to Access:
- Purchase tickets via the Merseytravel website, mobile apps, or at stations.
- For travel planning, use the Merseytravel Journey Planner.
Local Considerations:
- Liverpool is a walkable city, but public transport is essential for reaching suburbs and nearby towns.
- The Walrus Card is a smart card for convenient travel across buses, trains, and ferries.
7. Employment and Benefits Services
Liverpool City Council and Jobcentre Plus provide support for job seekers and those in need of financial assistance.
Key Services:
- Job Search Support: Help with CV writing, job applications, and interviews.
- Universal Credit: Financial support for low-income individuals and families.
- Skills Training: Courses to improve employability.
Costs:
- Services are free, but eligibility criteria apply for benefits.
How to Access:
- Visit your local Jobcentre Plus:
Address: 1-3 Williamson Square, Liverpool, L1 1EQ
Phone: 0800 169 0190
Website: Gov.uk Universal Credit
Local Considerations:
- Liverpool has a growing job market, particularly in the creative, digital, and healthcare sectors.
- Immigrants may need a National Insurance Number to access benefits.
8. Emergency Services
Liverpoolโs emergency services include police, fire, and ambulance services.
Key Services:
- Merseyside Police: Law enforcement and public safety.
- Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service: Fire prevention and emergency response.
- North West Ambulance Service: Emergency medical care.
Costs:
- Emergency services are free.
How to Access:
- Dial 999 for emergencies.
- For non-emergencies, contact:
- Police: 101
- NHS: 111
Local Considerations:
- Liverpool is generally safe, but like any city, itโs important to stay vigilant in busy areas.
Final Notes:
Liverpool is a welcoming city with a strong sense of community and a rich cultural heritage. The local government services are designed to support residents and visitors alike, but itโs important to familiarize yourself with the procedures and requirements for accessing these services. For more information, visit the Liverpool City Council website at liverpool.gov.uk.