August 17, 2026
Rural Community Network (RCN) was established in 1991 as a membership organisation to support and strengthen rural communities across Northern Ireland.
We were created to address rural disadvantage, isolation, and inequality, and to ensure rural voices are heard. We serve rural communities by providing support, advocacy, training and resources. Our core mission is to enable and sustain positive change, and our vision is to have thriving and peaceful communities.
Why it matters (our impact)
At Rural Community Network, we support rural communities to have a strong voice in shaping local services, community development, and a sustainable future.
Our work includes:
· Good Relations & Peacebuilding
· Heritage Projects
· Policy and Research Development
· Training & Capacity Building
· Advocacy & Representation
· Building Partnerships & Collaboration.
We address the challenges facing rural communities, including isolation, limited access to services, and under representation in decision making. Our work benefits communities by building confidence, skills, and stronger local connections. Through our support, rural communities in Northern Ireland are better equipped to influence change, access opportunities, and create inclusive, sustainable places to live - ensuring rural voices are heard and valued at every level.
RCN Energy Sustainability Project funded by National Lottery Community Fund
In 2025 RCN was awarded £50,000 as part of the National Lottery Community Fund’s Sustainable Community Buildings Programme to make our offices more energy efficient. This included installing a Solar Panel and Battery Storage System, new and effective heating controls, including the installation of modern thermostatic radiator valves, upgrading all lights in the building to LEDs and improving draught proofing to the building.
In the first quarter after installation, our electricity bill fell by approximately 85%. RCN also registered with Power NI Renewable as a microgeneration station and generated more than £450 in revenue during the first six months by exporting surplus electricity back to the grid.
Tel: 028 86766670
Email: info@ruralcommunitynetwork.org
Website: https://www.ruralcommunitynetwork.org/
