Rural Needs Act NI

The commencement of the Act is on a phased approach, beginning with all government departments and local councils from 1 June 2017 and for the remaining specified public authorities from 1 June 2018.

The Act defines ‘rural needs’ as “the social and economic needs of rural areas”. In general terms, a need can be deemed to be essential to achieving a standard of living comparable with that of the population in general. For example the ability to access key services such as health and education, suitable employment opportunities, and the ability to enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle.

To ‘have due regard’ means that a public authority must consciously consider the needs of people in rural areas. How much ‘due regard’ will depend on the circumstances and, in particular, on the relevance of rural needs to the decision or function in question. The greater the relevance and potential impact for people in rural needs, the greater the regard required by the duty.

Guidance on Rural Proofing

DAERA has developed guidance notes on rural proofing, a process through which public authorities can meet their obligations under the Act. A rural needs assessment template is also available.

A guide to the Rural Needs Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 - May 2017

Rural Needs Impact Assessment Template

Training on Rural Needs

An e-learning package has also been developed to assist public authorities. NICS staff can access this training through CAL’s course catalogue on HR Connect.

For staff in public authorities, a copy of the ‘Rural Proofing’ e-learning training package is available at no charge to your organisation from Daera.

 For further advice contact

Rural.proofing@daera-ni.gov.uk

Tel: 028 9052 4107
or visit : https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/rural-needs