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How is devolution impacting the UK's democracy?
I can explain what devolution is and the impact it is having on the UK’s democracy.
Lesson 5 of 6
New
New
- Year 11
How is devolution impacting the UK's democracy?
I can explain what devolution is and the impact it is having on the UK’s democracy.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Devolution is the transfer of powers from the UK to regional government.
- Devolution invovles transferred powers for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
- Devolution impacts democracy by giving regions more control over local issues.
- Devolution can impact the unity and identity of the UK.
Keywords
Devolution - the transfer of political powers from a central government or Parliament to a national, regional or local government or Parliament
Regional - relating to a particular area, or part of an area, of a state or country
Common misconception
Devolution means the regional governments are independent.
Devolution allows more powers, but the countries still remain part of the UK.
To help pupils understand, use a case study involving two regions they are familiar with. Comparing how devolution works in each area, pupils can observe the practical differences and explore how regional governments make decisions based on local needs making the concept more relatable and engaging.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of these are key features of a democracy?
Which of these are key features of a democracy?
one party system
Q2. of powers is when power is shared between different branches.
of powers is when power is shared between different branches.
Q3.What is a multi-party system?
What is a multi-party system?
a system where two political parties share power equally
a system where only one political party is allowed to exist
a system where no political parties are allowed
Q4.What is the UK Parliament?
What is the UK Parliament?
a group of judges who make legal decisions
a group of local councils working together
the body that enforces laws in the UK
Q5.The UK Parliament is part of the branch of power.
The UK Parliament is part of the branch of power.
Q6.How might a free press support a democracy?
How might a free press support a democracy?
allows the press more powers to make decisions
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the correct term with its definition.
Match the correct term with its definition.
Q2.Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have gained powers to make decisions on matters like education and health.
Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have gained powers to make decisions on matters like education and health.
Q3.Which of the following is not a direct impact of devolution?
Which of the following is not a direct impact of devolution?
greater local control over services
more power for regional governments
creation of policies that suit local needs
Q4.Which of these are advantages of devolution for UK democracy?
Which of these are advantages of devolution for UK democracy?
It reduces the need for local elections.
It eliminates the need for central government involvement.
Q5.Which of these are disadvantages of devolution for UK democracy?
Which of these are disadvantages of devolution for UK democracy?
It increases central government control.
Q6.Which of the following is true about devolution in the UK?
Which of the following is true about devolution in the UK?
full independence for each UK nation
shared rule by the UN and local leaders
local councils replacing Parliament
