National Acre
Our Network: Part of Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE)
At Northants ACRE, we are proud to be part of a national network of 38 rural community councils across England, all working together under the umbrella of Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE). This partnership strengthens our ability to support rural communities in Northamptonshire by giving us access to national expertise, resources, and advocacy to champion the interests of rural areas.
Who is ACRE?
Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) is a national charity that supports and advocates for rural communities across England. Established in 1987, ACRE works tirelessly to ensure that people living in rural areas have access to the services, opportunities, and resources they need to thrive.
ACRE’s mission is to promote vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable rural communities by:
- Advocating for rural interests at a national level, ensuring policymakers consider the unique challenges faced by rural populations.
- Supporting a network of local ACRE members (like Northants ACRE) that provide hands-on guidance and expertise to rural communities across the country.
- Facilitating partnerships between government agencies, funders, and local organisations to deliver tailored solutions for rural communities.
ACRE plays a crucial role in influencing national policy and championing the needs of rural areas by providing evidence-based insights and highlighting the voices of those living and working in the countryside.
A Nationwide Network of Support
Northants ACRE is one of 38 independent, county-based rural community councils that make up the ACRE Network. This extensive network allows us to:
- Share best practices and successful initiatives with other rural councils.
- Access national research and insights that help us develop effective strategies to support our local communities.
- Advocate for local communities by contributing to ACRE’s policy work, ensuring that the concerns of Northamptonshire’s rural residents are heard at a national level.
Our partnership with ACRE ensures that we remain connected to a broader movement that is dedicated to empowering rural communities across the country.
ACRE’s Key Areas of Work
ACRE focuses on a range of critical issues affecting rural communities, including:
- Village Halls and Community Buildings – Providing advice and support to over 10,000 village halls and community buildings, ensuring they remain at the heart of rural life.
- Rural Transport and Connectivity – Advocating for improved transport links and digital connectivity in remote areas.
- Housing and Planning – Promoting affordable housing and sustainable development to meet the needs of rural populations.
- Tackling Social Isolation – Supporting initiatives that reduce loneliness and create stronger, more connected communities.
By addressing these issues, ACRE helps create resilient rural communities that can adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining their unique character and identity.
How This Partnership Benefits Northamptonshire
Being part of the ACRE Network means that Northants ACRE can offer unparalleled support to Northamptonshire’s rural communities. Through this partnership, we can:
- Deliver up-to-date guidance and resources to community groups, parish councils, and village halls.
- Provide evidence-based advocacy to influence local and national policies that affect rural areas.
- Ensure that local voices are heard as part of national conversations on rural issues.
Our work, in collaboration with ACRE, ensures that rural Northamptonshire continues to flourish and that communities have the tools and support they need to succeed.
Committed to a Stronger Future for Rural Communities
At Northants ACRE, we are committed to promoting and protecting the interests of rural communities. Our relationship with ACRE strengthens our ability to make a lasting impact by ensuring that rural voices are heard, rural needs are met, and rural futures are bright.
To learn more about Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE), visit their website at www.acre.org.uk.