We were established in April 2005 and became an independent body on 1 October 2006, following the enactment of the NERC Act

Our role is爐o爌rovide well-informed, independent advice to government and ensure that policies reflect the real needs of people living and working in rural England, with a particular focus on tackling disadvantage.

We have爐hree key functions:

Rural advocate:
the voice for rural people, businesses and communities

Expert adviser:
giving evidence-based, objective advice to government and others

Independent watchdog:
monitoring and reporting on the delivery of policies nationally, regionally and locally