The Yorkshire and The Humber Rural Affairs Forum is a group made up of the region’s rural stakeholders who aim to represent the views and concerns of the rural ‘customer’, i.e. people affected by policies and services in rural areas.

The Forum provides feedback to authorities and organisations responsible for policy and service delivery and acts as a sounding board for new ideas.

Each English region has its own RAF, with organisational details depending on regional circumstances. Core funding is provided by the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) via the regional Government Offices, who also assist with help and advice as necessary.

The RAF Chairs meet quarterly with Defra’s Rural Minister when they can raise and discuss issues of importance to their Forums. The RAFs are also key groups for wider Government consultations.

www.yhraf.org.uk