Rural Community Inclusion

Summary of project

The aim of the project is to tackle rural access and social exclusion in rural Carmarthenshire by:

• increasing the availability and accessibility of basic services and facilities within a given spatial area;
• developing better links between remote and more densely populated areas through increasing broadband connectivity; improved transport links;
• addressing financial exclusion through provision of financial support services;
• promoting healthier communities by facilitating access to outreach services and leisure opportunities;

A comprehensive package of support for communities including mentoring support combined with a community grant that is designed to increase access to basic services and facilities in rural communities. 5 regeneration officers will be employed to engage with rural communities in developing and enhancing services and facilities that will lead to a better quality of life in each of the identified rural hubs. The role of the officers will be to facilitate the development of community led projects; encouraging the consolidation of services and facilities as well as promoting funding opportunities available.

In support of the County’s Anti Poverty strategy, the project will employ a debt and benefit advisor whose role will be to provide welfare rights advice and support to rural communities.