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Rural Commuity Projects: Better Funding
Scotland’s Finance Secretary and local MSP John Swinney has welcomed the ScotGov announcement on Rural Direct, a scheme to ensure greater funding for rural community projects in Scotland.
Rural Direct will aim to ensure communities reap maximum benefit from schemes aimed at tackling climate change, reducing waste and improving environmental management. The Crofters’ Commission and the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) will operate the service, offering advice, support and technology in the applications process.
The MSP said: “I am delighted to hear that rural communities in Scotland will be getting an increased level of support through the Rural Direct scheme. Of vital importance in Scotland today is that our rural communities have a vibrant and sustainable future."
He continued: “By setting up this scheme the Scottish Government are demonstrating their continued hands-on approach to supporting smaller communities in this country.
“In Angus and Perthshire we have some of Scotland’s finest agricultural land and rural industry, and it is the communities which holds them together which should benefit directly from this funding initiative. I have no doubt that our rural communities can and will benefit from this scheme, which is designed to target their needs and desires, and ensure a successful future.”
Administration
The Crofters’ Commission will be operating the scheme within the crofting areas and the SCVO will be covering the rest of rural Scotland. This will ensure that communities across all of rural Scotland will have access to support and advice to obtain funding for projects to benefit rural communities.
The assistance given will be need-based and may include information on what funding is available, support to achieve eligibility criteria and access to a computer where necessary to submit an application for funding.
Programmmes which Rural Direct can assist in the applications process include:
? Rural Priorities: £800 million available up to 2013 for the sustainable economic future of Scotland’s rural communities
? Climate Challenge Fund: £18.8 million over three years to help communities take local action to tackle the global threat of climate change
? Community Waste Fund: £7.5 million available over three years for innovative community projects aimed at fulfilling the ambition of a ‘Zero Waste Scotland’
? Big Lottery Fund: National Lottery funding to good causes, particularly aimed at community groups and projects that improve health, education and the environment.
Rural Direct can be reached by telephoning 0845 838 8598.
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