What is the RASP?

The Rural Access to Services Partnership (RASP) is a multi-agency partnership which has been established to look at access issues in the rural areas of Staffordshire.

The key areas of work for RASP are:

• People to Services
• Services to People
• Information and use of Technology

So, what will the RASP actually do?

Advantage West Midlands are providing £1 million over three years to reduce rural isolation and improve access for people. The initiative will be managed and co-ordinated by Stafford County Council.

The first major project for RASP is to set up a 'Wheels to Work' scheme. This will provide transport opportunities, employment or training. (This will include travel planning, moped loan, bicycle loan, subsidised bus travel, subsidised driving lessons, a vehicle repair grant and travel vouchers).

The RASP will also provide Rural Access Grants to improve access to services for those living in rural areas. Community groups interested in applying for these should contact the RASP officer in their area.

The RASP will look to identify access issues and work to find local solutions.