Rural Proofing
Overview
What is Rural Proofing?
Rural proofing is a commitment by Government to ensure domestic policies take account of rural circumstances and needs. It's a mandatory part of the policy process, which means as policies are developed, policy makers should:
- consider whether their policy is likely to have a different impact in rural areas, because of particular circumstances or needs
- make proper assessment of those impacts, if they're likely to be significant
- adjust the policy where appropriate, with solutions to meet rural needs and circumstances
Rural proofing applies to all policies, programmes and initiatives and it applies to both design and delivery stages. The Government is committed to making rural proofing a reality at national and regional levels.
Rural Proofing: where next?
Our report, ‘Monitoring Rural Proofing 2007’, shows that Government policy is still not adequately considering the needs of rural communities. Although there are some good examples of rural proofing, it's still not part of the day-to-day work of government departments.
We've recently completed some consultation and discussions on the future for rural proofing. This is informing our project to refresh rural proofing.
Read our Rural Proofing literature review
Download our review of Rural Proofing
Monitoring Rural Proofing Reports
A key element of our independent watchdog role is to report on how government is responding to its commitment to rural proof policy development and delivery.
Download our ‘Monitoring Rural Proofing 2007’ report
2004/2005 Rural Proofing Report
2005/2006 Rural Proofing report & summary
Rural Proofing LAAs
Our commentary notes, Local Area Agreements - 'Thinking Rural', have been produced to help all those seeking to rural proof LAAs.
We've also produced some further notes to help plan and achieve your objectives. They have been informed by discussions at a meeting of interested parties hosted last November by the Government Office for the South East.
Rural Analysis of the 2008 Budget
Our analysis of the 2008 budget identifies the tax announcements that have particular implications for individuals, communities and businesses in rural areas.