Local government in the North East of England is organized at the county, district and parish levels. It is responsible for delivering a wide range of services, including education, social care, highways, planning, waste management and environmental protection. The North East is home to five metropolitan districts – Newcastle, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland – which are governed by elected councils. There are also several non-metropolitan districts, including Northumberland, Darlington and Hartlepool. Local government services are funded through a combination of central government grants, local taxes, and charges for services provided. The North East has a long history of strong local government, with a commitment to community engagement and collaboration with the private and voluntary sectors. It is a region that continues to invest in its people and communities, making it a great place to live, work and do business.