This programme has been designed to demonstrate cost effective, community-led solutions to the challenges facing rural areas. The work that is commissioned will deliver long-term sustainable change and Carnegie UK Trust will use their experience to influence policymaking.
In support of the work of the Commission, Carnegie UK Trust established working groups, each supported by staff and consultants to take forward six themes. The commissioning of work under these themes took place over 2006 and 2007. All of the action research partners have now been contracted and the work will be completed by the beginning of 2009.
While the pace at which the Rural Action Research Programme themes work will vary, the links and joint activities that emerge will be maximised. To facilitate this process, Carnegie plan to hold working conferences and seminars at which the findings of the action research themes can be shared.
The 6 themes are as follows:
| Theme | Consultant |
|---|---|
| Addressing skills development of those involved in rural community development | Paul Henderson |
| The needs of remote and peripheral areas, with reference to young people and those involved in vulnerable organisations | Dr Frank Rennie |
| Involving rural residents in community planning | Trevor Cherrett |
| Developing models of community-led service provision in rural areas | Dr Sarah Skerratt |
| Building Inclusive rural communities | Philomena De Lima |
| Developing sustainable management of community assets |
