The final phase of work of this theme is now complete. It consisted of workshops and focus groups with key stakeholders – especially community groups - in each of the five jurisdictions in order to test out the skills needed for effective rural community development today and in the future. It built upon the action-research undertaken by the RARP over the last three years as well as the findings and recommendations of the Carnegie Commission on Rural Community Development. – A Charter for Rural Communities.
The emphasis in the final phase was on looking forward to future challenges, ambitions and opportunities for rural communities, especially the impact of climate change and resource depletion.
The following organisations were members of the skills consortium:
- Irish Rural Link
- Rural Community Network
- The Community Development Unit at the University of Bangor
- Wales Council for Voluntary Action
- The Scottish Community Development Centre
- The National University of Ireland, Maynooth
- University of Gloucestershire
- Action with Communities in Rural England
- Lifelong Learning UK
The final phase reports are attached below. Information on the 'supply-side' of rural community development can be found in lead consultant, Paul Henderson's briefing.