How to use the rural proofing checklist
The checklist is a screening tool, designed to help policy makers consider whether their policy is likely to have a different impact in rural areas. It is meant to be applied from the early stages of policy making, although it may also be used during implementation and evaluation.
If the checklist indicates a need for impact assessment or the development of other policy options, policy makers should use their established methods or seek the advice of the Commission for Rural Communities.
The policy challenges that rural areas present are diverse and the checklist only covers the most typical. Policy makers are encouraged to seek further information from the Commission for Rural Communities or other countryside experts. The checklist is not a substitute for consultation with rural communities, businesses or organisations.
The checklist has been prepared by the Commission for Rural Communities and its predecessors , primarily for central Government and its agencies, but other organisations may also find it helpful. It is designed to be used alongside other appraisal systems, such as Policy Appraisal and the Environment, the Green Ministers’ Biodiversity Checklist and Regulatory Impact Assessment. It does not duplicate or substitute for these systems.
Page last modified: 16 August 2007
Page published: 16 August 2007