About Rural Skills Cumbria

What is “Rural skills Cumbria”?

Rural Skills Cumbria is a training scheme covering the whole Cumbria region.

The aim of the scheme is to make training more accessible for those living and working within the rural community in Cumbria. The project is an integrated approach to the provision of vocational training, knowledge transfer and information provision.

Who can take part?

The courses, workshops and events are aimed at those currently working in the farming, food and forestry sectors, and also, those intending to go into these areas in the future. Anyone over the age of 16, living and working in Cumbria is eligible to attend.

Where has the funding come from?

The funding has come initially from the Rural Development Programme for England via Defra who have then asked the Local Action Groups (LAGS) within Cumbria, to come up with scheme to fulfil their aims in improving rural Cumbria.

There are two LAG’s in Cumbria: Fells & Dales covering the South of the county, and Solway Border & Eden covering the North of the county.

How much will it cost?

Fees vary according to the level of RDPE funding awarded to each course.

Course range from 100% funded to 50% funded so there is a great opportunity to gain the training you need or want at a reduced cost.

If this scheme isn’t supported future funding may not be available, so it’s important that as much of the money is spent where it should be – In Cumbria!