The following links are to agencies of strategic importance for rural Devon, and our key partners. We cannot be responsible for the content of partner’s websites.
Action for Blind People
Action for Blind People is a national charity that provides practical support to blind and partially sighted people through work, housing, leisure and support.
Our vision is quite simple. We believe in a world where people who are blind or partially sighted are enabled to actively participate in society and have equal access to the choices and opportunities that so many take for granted.
Agricultural Business Information Point (WDBiP/AgriBiP)
The function of AgriBIP is to assist businesses with their development and sustainability, helping to improve their competitiveness, which, in turn, leads to increased profitability and employment.
Associated Rural Training in Sustainability (ARTIS)
Sustainable Arts. ARTIS is a network of rural artisans, scientists, and engineers who aim to provide fun, affordable and partical short courses in the south-west region, based in South Devon. Courses include building your own wind turbine, water pump, or solar water heater; sustainability in bush craft; wildfood foraging; and many other biology and ecology science subjects.
Bicton College
Access to details concerning vocation and further education courses, specialising in countryside matters.
Blackdown Hills Business Association
The Blackdown Hills Business Association is an independent organisation open to all businesses large or small, sole traders, individual crafts people, retailers, manufacturers, hoteliers, B&B operators or any other person interested in business within the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the Devon & Somerset border.
The Business Association have a business directory which holds details of all business in the Blackdown Hills. You can search this directory at www.blackdown-hills.co.uk.
Blackdown Hills Rural Partnership
The Blackdown Hills Rural Partnership brings together local communities, local authorities, interest groups and national agencies to promote environmental, social and economic initiatives that will help ensure the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) remain a healthy, living landscape for future generations.
Business Link
Business link provides practical advice for businesses from starting up guidance to consultations for existing practices.
Cartwheel
Cartwheel’s primary aim is to offer visitors a true taste of rural life with the opportunity to enjoy the experience of a working farm or relax in beautiful and peaceful surroundings in the countryside. They select businesses that are family run and encourage the serving and sourcing of local food. Cartwheel actively supports the protection and conservation of our landscape and wildlife habitats.
Centre for Rural Policy Research
The CRPR is an inter-disciplinary team of social scientists interested in the rural economy and society with a special focus on agricultural, environmental and bioenergy policy; sustainable land management; agro-food regulation; sustainable communities; the social and economic development of agriculture; and the impacts of climate change on farming and land use. While most CRPR research is conducted in the UK it also has an interest in Eastern Europe, especially Poland. In addition to conducting research, CRPR staff play an active role in rural policy development.
Communities in Action
Community Planning Database - Community-led Planning is a way for local communities to voice their aspirations and needs. This database contains information from all available community-led plans across Devon and includes Parish and Market Town Plans. You can now easily find information about what is going on in your area.
Community Council of Devon
The Community Council of Devon is an independent charitable company and is the Rural Community Council for Devon.
Community Supported Farming
South Devon Community Supported Farming group (CSF) is a community group based in South Devon which works with the local community to provide access to farms, small holdings and land projects through the hosting of vegetable planting and harvesting days and family-friendly guided walks, talks and rural activities and skills training.
Dartmoor National Park
Dartmoor National Park serves to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of Dartmoor. It promotes the opportunity for the understanding and enjoyment of the areas special qualities by the public.
Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)
Defra is a UK Government Department, whose overarching challenge is to enable everyone to live within our environmental means. This is most clearly exemplified by the need to:
- tackle climate change internationally and through domestic action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and
- secure a healthy, resilient, productive and diverse natural environment.
Central to achieving these goals will be reducing the environmental impact of the lifestyles we lead, the products that the country’s economy produces and consumes, and the waste we produce. We also need to reduce the global impact of our food production and consumption, improving the contribution that a profitable and competitive farming industry in this country can make to our environment.
Devon & Cornwall Business Council (DCBC)
The DCBC is a Private Sector-led "Sub-Regional Strategic Partnership" umbrella organisation, which facilitates quarterly General Meetings attended by accredited Devon & Cornwall Representatives of over 70 Constituent National, Regional and Local Private and Public Sector Bodies, to discuss and co-ordinate their mutual interests in enhancing the competitiveness and economic development of the two Peninsula Counties.
Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service
The DSFRS vision is to help make Devon Safe. By its very nature, this vision is undertaken in partnership with other emergency services and agencies. As well as providing emergency response to incidents, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service also provides community fire safety, fire safety education, inspection of premises and an assortment of support functions.
Devon Association for Renewable Energy (DARE)
Access to information concerning renewable energy and ways in which your business can help.
Devon Association of Councils for Voluntary Service (DACVS)
The Devon Association of Councils for Voluntary Service formed as an organisation in 2004. It brings together the Councils for Voluntary Service which operate in the 8 districts of Devon.
Councils for Voluntary Service promote and develop local voluntary and community action and provide support for voluntary and community groups, individual volunteers and volunteer-involving organisations.
Devon Celebration of Food
Devon Celebration of Food is Devon’s own festival of food and drink. This exciting event gives food lovers a chance to sample some of the best produce from the Devon. The festival runs throughout October and comprises of gastro events such as food tasting, special ‘local food' restaurant menus, 'meet the producer' farm visits, specialist markets and events, to create a month long foodie experience.
Devon Conservation Forum
The Devon Conservation Forum is for all concerned about Devon’s landscape, resources and heritage. Their role is to
• Inform • Advise • Encourage • Persuade
Founded as a charity in 1972 the Forum aims to promote the wise sustainable use and enjoyment of Devon’s resources. As an action group the Forum monitors environmental issues affecting Devon bringing together under one umbrella organisation all who manage our natural and built landscape. The Forum is consulted on a wide range of local and national Government documents and those of other statutory authorities.
Devon County Council
Access to current news and information concerning Devon County Council and its role within Devon
Devon County Council - Neighbourhood Profiles
Separate link to site giving detailed information on over 30 market and coastal towns that has been researched by Devon county Council
Devon Environmental Business Initiative (DEBI)
DEBI is a non profit-making organisation and a registered charity. It was set up by business representatives to support other businesses in Devon. DEBI is run by a board of cross-sectoral, voluntary directors. It is supported financially and in-kind by its corporate supporters and by grants and membership charges.
Its aim is to inform, support and motivate businesses, of all sizes and from all sectors in Devon to adopt environmentally sound and profitable business policies and achieve environmental best practice.
Devon Farms Accommodation
If you wish to advertise your farm as accommodation, click on the link to access the Devon Farms Accommodation service
Devon Federation of Young Farmers Club
The Young Farmers Club is an organisation which offers the chance for young farmers to socialise with other farmers, learn and develop skills, help the community and travel abroad all while enjoying the benefits of a great social life in the countryside.
Devon Heartlands Community Partnership
'The Devon Heartlands Community Partnership is the continuation body for Okehampton Area MCTi it works closely with the community, local organisations and the agencies to help develop and deliver the local Community's Action Plan and Projects and actively supports ongoing Community Planning and Partnership Working.
Visit the Devon Heartlands website or contact the partnership by email at info@devonheartlands.co.uk or phone 01837 880119/01805 624874
Devon Renaissance
Devon Renaissance is a not for profit company which helps businesses in rural Devon by improving skills and attracting high value business to the area. We provide training to improve basic, technical, and management skills, and mentoring programs that bring the benefits of wider experience to small businesses. They can also offer environmental advice and BREEAM assessments.
Devon Rural Housing Partnership
The Devon Rural Housing Partnership is made up of thirteen of the county’s largest housing associations, all of Devon’s district/borough councils apart from North Devon, Devon County Council, Dartmoor National Park, Community Council of Devon, Housing Corporation and the Government Office Of the South West. Its work is through the Rural Housing Enabler Programme which aims to improve the amount of affordable housing available for people living in rural areas of Devon by working in partnership with the agencies and communities concerned.
In July 2007 the Devon Rural Housing Partnership joined with the Devon Strategic Housing Group (DSHG) to form a single housing partnership working together to improve the delivery of affordable housing in Devon.
Devon Social Group - Socialising & Friendship Community Organisation
We help people find friends and make more of their lives and provide a ready-made 'group of friends' that anyone can join in and go out with. In a civilisied society, there should be no need for anyone to be lonely. Our aim is to provide a service that elimiates loneliness and isolation. Established since 1997, the idea has always been to get together a nice group of people to go out to social events and activities with. Over the years, we have helped thousands of local people find friends and enjoy a better social life. The idea is to have fun, get people out of the house, and enable people to improve their social skills, network, and gain in confidence. Life should be more than just "Work-Telly-Sleep" every day - so we organise dining out at restaurants and country pubs, parties, walks, cycling, sports, outdoor activities, and all sorts of interesting things to do and enjoy.
Telephone : 08456 121 770 (charged at low cost local rates from any UK landline)
Email : info@devonsocialgroup.com
Devon Towns Forum
The Devon Towns Forum offers free membership to all Community Partnerships and Groups working in Devon at a Market Town level to produce Community Plans and Projects. The Devon Towns Forum exists to support the Partnerships as they develop their own ideas and plans by providing free access to its events, including specialist seminars, conferences and training. It also offers access to an excellent network of Groups, Organisations and Agencies.
Devon Wildlife Trust
The Devon Wildlife Trust is the only independent organisation exclusively concerned with all aspects of wildlife conservation in Devon and is part of the Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts.
Diocese of Exeter - The Church of England in Devon
Council for Church and Society (incorporating the Diocesan Board for Christian Care)
The council works ecumenically with the churches in Devon to encourage creative Christian engagement with issues which affect human living in the local community, civic society and the global environment – through awareness-raising, analysis and action.
Direct Gov
An extensive range of government information and services.
Discover Dartmoor
The Dartmoor Tourist Association represents tourism businesses on Dartmoor. Its 200 plus members include accommodation establishments, activity centres, tourist attractions, pubs and retailers, in and around the Dartmoor area.
Duchy College - Rural Business School
Duchy College 'Cornwall's College of the Countryside' prides itself on being one of the leading land based colleges in the country, and has several campuses throughout Cornwall. The Rural Business School combines education, training, business support and applied research for rural industries. The Rural Business School is host to a number of Objective One and Defra funded initiatives such as Rural Progress, the Vocational Training Scheme, Grassland Challenge and the Organic Studies Centre.
East Devon AONB
The East Devon AONB Partnership is a joint initiative funded by East Devon District Council, Devon County Council, and Natural England; all working to help conserve and manage the East Devon AONB. It includes the East Devon section of the Jurassic Coast, Englands first natural World Heritage site.
East Devon District Council
Access this link for information and current news on East Devon District Council and its role in improving the quality of the area.
Enterprise South Devon
Enterprise South Devon’s primary role is to assist with the establishment of small to medium sized businesses throughout the Teignbridge, South Hams and Torbay areas of South Devon.
Environment Agency
The Environment Agency provides high quality environmental protection and improvement in England and Wales. They work with businesses and other organisations to prevent damage to the environment by providing education and guidance.
Exeter City Council
Providing a range of information about the services of Exeter City Council, including a link to current news and developments in the area.
Exmoor National Park Authority
Exmoor National Park aim to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the National Park and promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the Park by the public.
Farm Crisis Network
The Farm Crisis Network has been developed since 1993 to help families in farming and related activities who are experiencing problems. It is based on local groups whose members have a combination of technical and pastoral understanding and are able to respond quickly and confidentially to requests for help.
Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG)
FWAG exists to provide farmers, landowners and other clients with the best opportunity for environmental gain through cost effective, quality solutions.
Fata He
FATA HE is a West African word which means ‘Inclusion’ and was established in 2001 to redress social and economic inequalities relating to Black and Minority Ethnic (B&ME) individuals, families and groups within the city of Plymouth. Since becoming incorporated as a Limited Company (Social Enterprise) in 2003, Fata He has become an umbrella organisation for other B&ME individuals and groups, and works closely with other local, sub-regional and regional organisations.
Federation of Small Businesses
The UK's largest small business support organisation providing a range of services as well as lobbying, support and pressure on national and local issues.
Forestlore UK
ForestLore UK is a Devon based Bushcraft School founded by Ben Langler in 2006 to provide environmental education through Native Bushcraft, Lore and Philosophy.
Our professional and dedicated team aim to inspire and re-connect people to the natural world in a deep and meaningful way.
Forestry Commission
The Forestry Commission is the Government Department responsible for forestry policy throughout Great Britain. The mission of the Forestry Commission is to protect and expand Britain's forests and woodlands and increase their value to society and the environment.
The objective of the Forestry Commission GB is to take the lead in the development and promotion of sustainable forest management and to support its achievement nationally.
Each of the countries has its own strategy and mission, and delivers the forestry policy of each country through specific objectives drawn from the country strategies.
Government Office for the South West (GOSW)
GOSW is an outpost of central government. From our offices in Bristol, Plymouth and Truro we represent the work and interests of several Government departments.
Great Torrington & District Community Development Trust
The Great Torrington & District Community Development Trust in North Devon is a community enterprise working in partnership with many local, regional and national organisations.
International Rural Network
International Rural Network - The IRN is an inclusive and interdisciplinary network of academics, rural community practitioners and activists, and policy makers who are engaged in rural community development, health and education in any country of the world.
Kingsbridge Town Council
Access to information regarding the news and services of the Town Council in Kingsbridge
Land Between the Moors 2 Project
This project tested and developed the Countryside Agency’s (now Natural England) concept of Local Land Management Frameworks (LLMF) within the Culm Joint Character Area. Engaging stakeholders, to inform development of a detailed and mapped vision for the area, backed up with GIS to help land use decisions by landowners and professionals, the project built upon the work carried out by the Sustainable Land Management Strategy for the Culm.
Land Heritage Trust
Land Heritage Trust is a national Charity that works to protect and sustain the countryside by promoting organic farming and growing with a special interest in the protection of the small family farm. Uniquely, Land Heritage owns land and acquires farms to secure their organic status and is committed to the conservation of our native wildlife, flora and fauna.
Leader +Teignbridge
This programme closed in 2008, however the website is still active and gives an overview of activity acheived through this programme. LEADER + was a European Union Programme for community led regeneration in rural areas. The LEADER + programme in Teignbridge was managed by the Teignbridge Rural Regeneration Partnership.
Learning and Skills Council
The LSC exists to make England better skilled and more competitive. We have a single goal: to improve the skills of England's young people and adults to make sure we have a workforce that is of world-class standards. We are responsible for planning and funding high-quality vocational education and training for everyone. Our vision is that by 2010, young people and adults in England have the knowledge and skills matching the best in the world and are part of a fiercely competitive workforce.
Leicestershire Rural Partnership
The Leicestershire Rural Partnership comprises of 19 diverse organisations who work together aiming to deliver a better quality of service to rural areas and to use public money and other resources more effectively.
Local Government Association
The Local Government Association represents the local authorities of England and Wales - existing to promote a better local government for your area.
Love the Flavour
This website offers a gateway for the very best of Devon's products and hospitality. The site is an opportunity to discover the best local companies for food and drink in the area which could benefit your business
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Market and Coastal Towns Network
Five county Town Forums in the South West have joined forces in July 2008 to form this new body. The Network's aims are to;
Our work builds on the legacy of the Market and Coastal Towns Association (MCTA) which operated from 2000 to June 2008.
Mid Devon District Council
Access to information and news regarding the services provided by Mid Devon District Council to the local area.
National Farmers Union
The National Farmers' Union is the democratic organisation for farmers and growers in England and Wales. Its central objective is to promote successful and socially responsible agriculture and horticulture, while ensuring the long term viability of rural communities.
Natural England
Natural England brings together English Nature, the Countryside Agency and the Rural Development Service.
Natural England is there to conserve and enhance the natural environment, for its intrinsic value, the well-being and enjoyment of people and the economic prosperity that it brings.
North Devon Council
Link to the information of services provided by North Devon District council, including current news and events in the area
North Devon +
A new organisation that heralds a new approach to economic development and community and society regeneration. It is a partnership based on the private and public sector.
Plymouth City Council
Link to Plymouth City Council providing information on their services within the city, current updates on development and news items.
Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB)
The RSPB is the UK charity working to secure a healthy environment for birds and wildlife, helping to create a better world for us all.
Ruby Country
Ruby Country is the name given to the agricultural hinterland of north-west Devon, UK. A relatively deprived area, it covers 45 inland parishes around the market towns of Holsworthy and Hatherleigh. It is a non-profit partnership working to develop a stronger and more robust local economy, with a particular emphasis on developing sustainable tourism and promoting local food and drink. Activities vary from providing training and practical help to local businesses, to marketing the area and promoting local food and drink, to developing and maintaining walking and cycling routes.
Rural Futures Unit, University of Plymouth
This department ceased in 2009 and the work has been taken up by the University's School of Geography, however the website is still operational. Rural Futures was a 'community of practise' within the University of Plymouth, linking academics with each other and with practitioners, to the benefit of those living and working in rural areas.
Rural Services Network
The Rural Services Network is a membership organisation devoted to safeguarding and improving services in rural communities across England. It is the only national network specifically focusing on this vital aspect of rural life. Its membership includes local authorities, public bodies, businesses, charities and voluntary groups across the spectrum of rural service provision. The network has three main purposes:·Representing the case for a better deal for rural service provision; Exchanging useful and relevant information; Developing and sharing best practice
Rural Stress Information Network
The Rural Stress Information Network is a national 'umbrella' charity, working with a range of partners in England and Wales and at the local level with farming and rural support groups. *Unfortunately due to economic conidtions, the ruralnet network ceased trading in July 2009, however the ruralnet website is still active. Contatct information for the RSIN can be found on the NCVO website, however the RSIN's own weblink is inactive*
Seaton Business Forum
A local pressure group supporting the needs of the local community through development and management of new and ongoing projects that enhance the economic and residential development of the area.
Silvanus Trust
The Silvanus Trust is working through partnerships to regenerate the woodlands in the South West for economic, social and environmental benefits.
Small Farms Association
The Small Farms Association (SFA) is a not-for-profit organisation representing small farmers across the UK.
Soil Association
The Soil Association is the UK's leading campaigning and certification organisation for organic food and farming.
South Devon AONB Partnership
The partnership exists to provide a strategic lead in the protection and enhancement of the South Devon ANOB.
South Devon Community Supported Farming Group
South Devon Community Supported Farming group (CSF) is a community group based in South Devon which works with the local community to provide access to farms, small holdings and land projects through the hosting of vegetable planting and harvesting days and family-friendly guided walks, talks and rural activities and skills training.
South Hams District Council
Access to information and news regarding the services the District Council provide to the area.
South West Chamber of Rural Enterprise (SWCoRE)
The South West Chamber of Rural Enterprise works to encourage profitable and sustainable land-based businesses in the region and provides a co-ordinated voice for representatives of the sector.
South West Forest
This programme has now ended, however the website is still available and provides information relevant to the South West Forest Area, inlcuding walks and reserves. South West Forest was an independent, non-commercial partnership which aims to enhance the lifestyles, environment and opportunities for those who live and work in the South West Forest Area.
South West Forum
South West Forum ensures that voluntary and community organisations have a strong and effective champion at regional level.
South West Lakes Trust
South West Lakes Trust is an independent charity which was set up to encourage, promote and enhance sustainable recreation, access, nature conservation and education on and around over 40 inland waters in the South West for the benefit of the general public.
South West Observatory
Sharing information and intelligence under the umbrella of the South West Observatory
South West Regional Assembly (Now South West Councils)
The responsibilities of the South West Regional Assembly have been transferred to to Strategic Leaders Board within the South West Councils. The Strategic Leaders Board is a grouping of local authority Leaders made up of county and unitary council Leaders and district representation.
South West Rural Enterprise Gateway
The Rural Enterprise Gateway aims to help rural businesses develop and adapt to change, particularly groups of agricultural and land-based businesses through access to information, training and business development support.
South West Tourism
South West Tourism (SWT) is the regional body responsible for the sustainable development and promotion of tourism in the South West of England. A membership organisation for the private and public sector South West Tourism's aim is to see the South West recognised as a model tourism destination, achieving a unique balance between its environment, local communities, industry and visitor satisfaction, achieving long-term economic and social benefit for the region.
South West Rural Development Agency (SWRDA or SWERDA)
The RDA aims to ensure the long-term economic success of the Southwest by delivering the Regional Economic Strategy. This involves giving people the skills they need, encouraging enterprise, improving communications and helping to regenerate communities.
My Start Childrens Centre Ilfracombe
My Start is a SureStart Children's Centre built around the wants and needs of local people. The aim is to improve the well being and life of young people (4 and under) through better health, childcare and educational opportunities.
Tamar Valley AONB
This site contains information and news from the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Teignbridge District Council
Access to information regarding the services of Teignbridge Council in order to improve the area.
The Pub is the Hub
The Pub is the Hub was set up in 2001 through the Rural Action Programme of Business in the Community. It encourages breweries, pub owners, licensees and local communities to work together to help retain and enhance rural pubs.
The pub has traditionally provided a centre/heart to the hamlet or village and the pub is the hub scheme aims to keep the pub trading by finding additional uses for it, thereby improving its financial viability. This scheme has had considerable successes; examples of which are detailed on this web site.
Torbay Borough Council
Link to information and current news within the Torbay area by the local council.
Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust
The Trust is dedicated to the conservation of the natural and built environment of Torbay and the surrounding area, the provision of recreational facilities and environmental education
Torridge District Council
The official guide to Torridge District, the comprehensive one-stop-shop guide to District Council services, Local events and News
Trans-European Rural Network
Trans-European Rural Network (TERN) - is a coalition of grass-root initiatives based in rural areas throughout Europe. TERN was set up following the second EC programme to combat poverty and responded to a need to facilitate contacts between groups based in marginalised rural zones.
Wessex Reinvestment Trust (WRT)
The WRT exist to help communities in the South West of England become more sustainable by providing business and home loans, and advice to villages and towns on how to develop land for the benefit of their community.
West Devon Borough Council
Link to information regarding the news and services of the council to the West Devon Area
West Devon Environment Network
Westden is an independent charity working with communities to promote a good environment and quality of life, now and for the future.
Based in West Devon, the charity runs a wide range of practical projects to help foster sustainable development.
Womans Farming and Food Union (WFU)
Founded in 1979, this voluntary organisation is committed to promoting an understanding of and confidence in all aspects of quality British produce.
The WFU believes that by representing the best interests of consumers and producers, both the health and economy of the nation will benefit.