We’ve been asked by the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to provide regular reports about the impacts of the economic downturn on rural businesses, employment and households. These reports will help enable the rural voice and needs to be put by him to the National Economic Council.

Download the reports we've submitted so far:

• 1: Recession impacts on the economies and communities of rural England

• 2: The rural housing market

• 3: Young people

• 4: Business performance

• 5: Employment and the rural labour market

• 6: Rural housing

• 7: Financial inclusion

• 8. Rural labour markets

• 9. Market towns

• 10. Rural housing

• 11. Business performance

We’re inviting rural and economic organisations, local and sub-regional authorities and partnerships, companies, professional and trade associations, housing and support groups operating in rural England to help us have a constant source of evidence.

Tell us how the 'credit crunch' and the recession are impacting on your economy:

Join in our discussion and share your experiences with us

Email us at elif.skinner@ruralcommunities.gov.uk

Comment on our blog

Our reports are submitted mid-monthly to the Secretary of State. Each month has a different focus, but we're happy to receive information and commentary at any time.

We're also interested in any planned or recent surveys, on businesses, labour markets, housing and consumer and debt issues, which might be accessible to us and potentially suitable for a rural analysis.

We combine our regular reports with statistical analysis of change in the labour markets, housing and premises, business and in financial inclusion.  We’re also monitoring the local, regional and business papers circulating in rural areas.

We were also able to reflect your evidence and experience in our report on the implications of the ‘credit crunch’ on rural communities. The findings form part of a report for Government, led by Professor Michael Parkinson.

Download our contribution to the report to government

The RDAs are also providing similar regular reports which they submit through the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills.  Rural impacts may also feature in their reports and we'll be maintaining close liaison with them.