Village SOS is an exciting initiative to launch a rural revival and inspire people to start community businesses and breathe life into their villages.

The BBC TV series Village SOS presented by Sarah Beeny (showing Wednesday’s at 8 p.m. for six weeks from 10^th August), is showcasing 6 communities that have revitalised their villages through voluntary action. 

The TV series showcases examples of what communities can do for themselves and the Community Council of Devon is supporting the initiative by providing advice and support to any Devon Community who wants to set up their own community enterprise. 

Elaine Cook, Chief Executive of the Community Council of Devon says “We are working with communities across Devon to help develop innovative and enterprising approaches which solve rural problems, provide local services and improve the quality of community life.”

“Our dedicated team can offer expert guidance, tools and support to help communities start their own businesses, guiding them from their initial idea through to the transformation of their community”.

The Village SOS initiative wants to make an impact beyond the villages showcased in the series through a BBC Learning Campaign which will help other communities take steps towards starting their own enterprises. 

The Big Lottery, who funded the 6 villages featured in the series, will be making additional funding available to kick start new community businesses with grants from £10k to £30k.

If you think you have an enterprising idea that will use the skills of local people and the area’s natural resources, land and buildings contact the Community Council of Devon on 01392 383443 or email info@devonrcc.org.uk