Our Rural Development Approach 

Place-based and rooted in local identity.

We design projects that grow from the unique history, landscape and culture of rural Somerset. By celebrating local heritage and stories, we strengthen pride, belonging and connection to place. Examples include the Alfred Pilgrimage, heritage walking routes linking Athelney, Aller and Stoke St Gregory, family-friendly trails, and Somerset Day celebrations. 

Community-led and inclusive

Our projects are shaped with local people, not delivered to them.

We work with residents, schools, churches, village halls, community groups and volunteers to co-design activities that reflect local needs and interests, building confidence and local capacity.  

Pan-European evidence highlights the importance of local capacity and empowerment in rural areas, particularly where populations are small and resources are limited. 

Improving wellbeing and reducing isolation

We recognise that rural development is about more than economics. Our work actively supports mental wellbeing, social connection and inclusion, particularly in deeply rural areas where isolation can be significant.

This work includes a pilot befriending programme in the Somerset Levels & Moors LCN area, co-created in partnership with Linking Lives UK and local parish churches. 

Partnership and collaboration

We act as a connector across sectors, collaborating closely with:

  • Somerset Council and the Levels & Moors Local Community Network

  • Town and parish councils

  • Visit Somerset, South West Heritage and Natural England

  • Third sector partner projects such as Village Agents and Somerset Carers Alliance

  • The Diocese of Bath & Wells and local parish churches

  • Landowners, village halls, community groups and local individuals

  • Research shows that joined-up, multi-level collaboration is essential for successful rural development. 

Building long-term resilience

Rather than short-term fixes, we focus on strengthening the long-term social, cultural and emotional resilience of rural communities.

Our projects are designed to be adaptable, repeatable and embedded in existing community assets, supporting communities to adapt to change while retaining identity and connection. 

We aim to create projects that:

  • Can be repeated, adapted and grown locally

  • Strengthen existing community assets such as churches, village halls, village pubs and other local hospitality businesses, footpaths and traditions

  • Build lasting relationships between people, organisations and places

  • Support communities to adapt to change while maintaining identity and connection