Mentors step in to create new paths to Dales
Drive to bring back those who leave for university
NEW ARRIVALS and returnees to the Yorkshire Dales are at the centre of an initiative to persuade others to follow their example and put down roots there to entice younger generations into rural communities.
The emerging food, arts and crafts sectors in the National Park are seen as key to unlocking a new rural economy buoyed by a generation of young adults who are evangelists for the country life. So-called “creative champions” who have set up shop in the Dales are being drafted in to help change perceptions of country life among other young people.
“There are loads of examples of young creatives who are showing entrepreneurial spirit in coming to the Dales or returning here,” said Lindsey Hebden, who is running the Great Place programme, supported by Arts Council England and financed by the Heritage Lottery Fund.
“We are liaising with a number of these inspirational people and telling their stories to inspire others, but we’d like to hear from more.”
The target audience, Ms Hebden said, included people brought up in the area who had gone away to university but could be tempted to return, given the right opportunities and advice.
“There are ways in which you can pursue your career in a rural environment that might be better for your wellbeing, and to pursue your skills not just as a hobby but as a living as well,” she said.
“There may be some compromise involved but we are looking to find models of working that are different to being in an office from nine to five.
“Our creative champions feel
strongly about living and working in the Lakes and Dales and are committed to encouraging more young people to do the same.”
The mentors so far recruited include a cafe owner, a restaurateur and an artist.
Steph Dwyer, who runs the Settle-based outdoor education and training company, Yorkshire Dales Guides, has also signed up to the scheme. A Dubliner who “fell in love” with the Dales, she put a career in chemistry on hold to build a rural business.
“People may have to make compromises,” she said. “For me, there are huge financial differences. But I’m much happier in the Dales.
“It’s not always as easy making a living as it is in a city, but it’s much more rewarding. It’s important that people are supported in creating sustainable lives.”
The Great Place programme was created as a three-year project to put art, heritage and culture at the heart of community planning within the Dales and the Lake District – both of whose populations are ageing as younger generations move away in pursuit of winder career opportunities and more affordable houses.
Organisers say that without new ideas from young people “loving and living in these protected landscapes”, the economy and distinctiveness of the areas have no future.
Ms Hebden said: “We’re trying to encourage more young people into the area and retain those who are here already.
“I’m not saying we should stop people going away to university, but we need to work to bring them back.
“People like me who were brought up in the area but went away for work still have a huge affinity with the Dales and come back home a lot – and they’re real advocates for the place. They can bring with them skills they’ve gained elsewhere which can be adapted to a rural environment.”
There are huge financial differences. But I’m happier in the Dales. Steph Dwyer, who runs the Settle-based Yorkshire Dales Guides.