Background

Following the publication of the research 'A Sense of Belonging' (1997) the rural unit has delivered a number of community based projects in rural communities throughout Northern Ireland. This is attempt to highlight and address the needs and issues most critical to young people from rural communities. This work is underpinned by a community development approach that explores a number of themes such as social exclusion, isolation and young people's position within their community.

Its associated values and principles such as empowerment, inclusion, ownership and focus on disadvantage all have positive implications for the work with rural young people and the communities in which they live.

It also recognises that young people have the capacity to think about their lives, use their past experiences to inform future decisions and actions, and make a positive contribution to the life of their communities.