About Us

We were established in April 2005 and became an independent body on 1 October 2006, following the enactment of the NERC Act

Our role is to provide well-informed, independent advice to government and ensure that policies reflect the real needs of people living and working in rural England, with a particular focus on tackling disadvantage.

We have three key functions:

Rural advocate:
the voice for rural people, businesses and communities

Expert adviser:
giving evidence-based, objective advice to government and others

Independent watchdog:
monitoring and reporting on the delivery of policies nationally, regionally and locally

Our Purpose

Our Work and Work Programmes

Our Commissioners and Commission Meetings

Our Commission Management Board

Our Management Statement and Financial Memorandum