We all have five capital assets we can exploit for a better livelihood: social capital, financial capital, natural, human and physical capital.
This ‘sustainable livelihoods’ model from international development circles is slowly becoming part of the development culture here. ruralnet|uk conference delegates were introduced to this back at ruralnet|2003 and the concept will be explored further this year.
Early commitment from our principal partner and sponsor this year, East Midlands Development Agency (emda) has helped us build on the success of past events. Their creative input and financial investment will help us ensure our sixth event is the best ruralnet|uk conference yet.
We are delighted that John Grimshaw, CEO of Sustrans and mastermind of the National Cycle Network, and Simon Hebditch, CEO of Capacitybuilders, have agreed to be our keynote speakers.
John, described by the BBC as ‘the antidote to Jeremy Clarkson’, has motivated and inspired thousands of people to make the National CycleNetwork a reality. He has motivated funders, officials, his own staff and volunteers. At ruralnet|2006 he will tell you how it was done.
Simon Hebditch heads up the new Capacitybuilders, charged with the strengthening of the voluntary and community sector in England. Capacitybuilders has made a strong commitment to supporting the rural VCS in their strategy. At ruralnet|2006 Simon will outline how he envisages this over the next few years and answer questions from delegates.
The role for market towns
Our overall theme is 'Exploiting your Rural Capital'. This is nicely ambiguous and as well as the five capital assets will allow us to explore the concept of market towns as ‘rural capitals’. In the Day 1 morning session, emda will focus on this role for market towns in the East Midlands. They will highlight both successes and lessons learnt about the crucial role ‘rural capitals’ play in sustaining a healthy rural economy, and in delivering services. After this, the main event will blend essential plenary sessions, interactive workshops, networking time, the exhibition and farmers’ market.
A live courtroom drama
This year the event will be rounded off by a live courtroom drama. Controversially, agencies involved in rural development (which include ruralnet|uk itself) are charged with deliberately exaggerating the phenomenon of "rural deprivation" to their own ends. All delegates will have the opportunity to cross-examine the speakers for both prosecution and defence.
The Logical Framework
At ruralnet|2006 you will also be able to get ahead of the game and learn about a technique used to design, assess the robustness of development projects, and then monitor them. The Logical Framework has been used for many years by international development agencies and are slowly becoming a part of the EQUAL and ESF programmes.
Cybercafe and ICT Clinic
The conference will, as at previous years' events, include a supported cybercafe and ICT Clinic. Access to the internet will also be available to those with wireless enabled laptops.
Farmers' Market @ ruralnet|2006
Inconjunction with East Midlands Fine Foods, ruralnet is proud to showcase local produce this year with a demonstration farmers' market. 6 local producers will make fresh goods available to delegates, who will be provided with vouchers to spend in the marquee area.
Using local produce reduces food miles and carbon emissions as well as stimulating local economies and contributing to the sustainability of our rural communities.
Delegates are warned they may develop a taste for some of the best produce in the UK!
Sponsors
This year’s principal sponsor is East Midlands Development Agency (emda). Other sponsors will be announced on our Sponsors and Exhibitors page as they are confirmed.
Sponsorship opportunities are now available. Please contact d.head@ruralnetuk.org for more information.
The venue
This year’s venue, Center Parcs in Sherwood Forest, accommodates everyone within walking distance (or cycling distance - a bike is included in your delegate package) of the excellent purpose-built conference centre.
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