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CHAPTER 13: PROVISIONS TO ENSURE THAT THE PROGRAMME IS PUBLISHED
13.1 Communication Plan and target groups
A strategic communications plan has been compiled by the Managing Authority in order to promote how the SRDP - through support from the Community - will support sustainable rural development. The plan shows how we will develop and deliver communication of the changed focus of the new SRDP in supporting development in Scotland's rural communities. The success of the SRDP will depend on adequate understanding and awareness among rural communities of the resources and opportunities offered through the Programme. The communications plan examines how the National Rural Network and the national and regional delivery bodies for the SRDP will work together to ensure effective communication of the Programme.
The Communication Plan aims to increase awareness of the Programme among the general public, but will be targeted at key groups:
- potential and final beneficiaries;
- economic, social and environmental development agencies, including those operating Structural Funds programmes;
- professional and representative trade and industry organisations;
- non-governmental organisations, including those promoting the natural and historic environment, equality between men and women and equal opportunities; and,
- environmental organisations in the public and voluntary sectors.
13.2 Actions to facilitate communication
The public will be informed about the opportunities provided by the SRDP through printed and electronic publicity material, including 'accessible' material to promote key messages and objectives of the SRDP. There will also be media briefings and articles in national and local press, a presence at national and local shows and events, and a devoted section of the Scottish Executive website. Information and publicity will also be disseminated through the National Rural Network and the regional network of offices that will provide secretariat functions for the SRDP. Such information will include the measures that are proposed and any modifications to the Programme during the 2007-13 period.
Potential beneficiaries will receive applicant guidance on the key objectives and operation of the SRDP and on the detail of the measures. Such guidance will be available in electronic and printed form, and will be backed up with workshops to explain to potential recipients and to advisers how the Programme and the specific measures will operate, including the application and assessment process.
All applicants will be informed by the Regional Project Assessment Committees about the outcome of their applications and, where successful, the level of Community funding as part of their awards.
The Managing Authority will ensure that all arrangements for communication of the SRDP meet the Community's specific requirements as set out in Regulation ( EC) No 1974/2006, Annex VI.
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