Rural Scotland People, Prosperity and Partnership
Continuing the EffortWhile Rural Framework was important in opening a new era of cooperation between all rural interests, there has been much other work done, in research and support for individual initiatives. Very many people are working hard for rural communities, not least through the voluntary sector. Highlands & Islands Enterprise has found that in its area alone there are over 3,000 voluntary organisations, equivalent to one for every 100 persons in the area. That pattern is repeated across Scotland. We have found that engaging with this huge resource of people, keen to take action themselves, is highly effective and productive.Major players in enabling the voluntary sector to be heard are organisations such as Scottish Wildlife and Countryside Link; the National Farmers Union, Scotland; the Scottish Landowners' Federation; Rural Forum and the network of community councils and Councils of Voluntary Service. Not every demand made through this wide web can be met but it is vital that the two-way traffic between the centre and the community is maintained. The Scottish Office Reorganisation
|