RCCE (Rural Community Council of Essex) is an independent charity (no 1097009) helping people and communities throughout rural Essex create a sustainable future. We have been working with local community groups, parish councils, village halls and community buildings across Essex since being established in 1929. Our members have many years’ experience in finding innovative solutions to the challenges facing rural communities. Advice and support is available on projects relating to housing; neighbourhood and community-led planning; transport, facilities and services; fuel poverty and energy generation; broadband; and community assets such as village halls. We are also an active member of the Essex Partnership, the countywide strategic partnership, and manage the work of the Essex Rural Partnership which brings together a range of public, private and voluntary sector organisations with a stake in the future of rural Essex. We host the Community Agents Essex project, Braintree Advice Services Partnership and the Essex Rivers Local Action Group. RCCE's mission is to provide local communities with the skills, resources and expertise necessary to achieve a thriving and sustainable future. This means helping communities come together to identify their own needs and priorities, and provide them with advice and support in developing practical solutions. We strive to provide a voice for rural communities, representing their interests to government at local, regional and national level.