In addition, the Centre has worked with partners on projects in over 10 counties of England and Wales, in Europe and beyond. NREC action-research projects provide knowledge about critical areas affecting rural areas and suggestions for action. Its research ranges across rural deprivation, village tourism and village shops, and the use of ICTs by small business and the voluntary sector. It also writes feasibility studies, business plans and funding bids. The Centre has acknowledged experience in project management.
Communication is essential for the transfer of expertise.
The NREC is spearheading the use of ICTs for communication in rural areas with the launch of Inforurale in 1997 and RuralNet in 1998. It also publishes newsletters, practical guides and research reports and runs seminars. The Centre's small staff is an imaginative and practical group of people. Flexible and multi-lingual, the emphasis is above all on quality in the research, action, assessment and dissemination of experience which will help rural communities find their way to a sustainable future.