This theme examined the skills and knowlege needed for Rural Community Development. Working with nine partners from across the UK and Ireland, the theme focussed on looking forward to future challenges, ambitions and opportunities for rural communities, especially the impact of climate change and resource depletion.

A Skills and Knowledge Bank was created as a guide which can be found in the Manifesto for Community Development.

The lead consultant, Paul Henderson also wrote a briefing which examined the 'supply side' of rural community development.