Natural England

Stepping stones to a healthier economy – 25 March 2003

Thriving rural economies are therefore vital to our national prosperity, according to a new report published by the Countryside Agency today (25 March).

Launching the report, Rural Economies – stepping stones to healthier futures, Countryside Agency chief executive Richard Wakeford said: “The countryside is far from being a picture postcard place with a mainly agricultural economy. It is a hive of economic activity that plays a major part in driving the national economy.

“Our report looks at the nature and the needs of rural economies. It shows that many rural people are extremely resourceful at using their skills. There is a high level of self-employment and more than half of all new business start-ups are by people who have moved into the countryside. Many people juggle different part-time jobs at once. Despite such enterprise, too many people struggle to earn a decent living. This cause of disadvantage and social exclusion can be reduced, by well-informed government interventions.

“Our report shows that many rural economies are dynamic. If more of rural England is to share the rewards of this enterprising culture then we need to work together with partner organisations, local and national government to:

• raise marketable skill levels among rural people, and help them access more rewarding work through training and other support; 
• ensure there is adequate business support and advice for existing rural businesses;
• develop ways to raise household disposable income by more joined-up working between employers, benefits and pensions offices; 
• develop a favourable environment for new small business start up and job creation; and
• maintain and improve rural environments, which can in turn attract new investment.

“These are just some of the stepping stones towards a healthier future for our countryside,” he concluded.

Rural Economies – stepping stones to healthier futures is available price £16 from Countryside Agency Publications,  PO Box 125, Wetherby, West Yorkshire LS23 7EP. Tel: 0870 120 6466, Fax: 0870 120 6467. And on our website www.countryside.gov.uk                          

- ends -

Notes to editors

For further information or an interview please contact the Countryside Agency press office on 020 7340 2909/7/6 (out of hours 07900 608204).

The Countryside Agency is the statutory body working to make life better for people in the countryside and improve the quality of the countryside for everyone. www.countryside.gov.uk     

Key facts on rural economies 

FACT: 80% of the rural workforce is employed in either manufacturing, distribution, financial or public services - not farming or tourism

FACT: 5.53 million employees and self employed work in rural shops, offices, workshops, factories and farms