Across rural County Durham, voluntary organisations, community groups, and individuals know their communities best. They know what it is like to struggle with transport, feel isolated, or keep local services going with limited funding and time. In 2026, a series of free, welcoming events and workshops will create a space for sharing experiences, exploring how research can address local challenges and skill development.

As part of the Rural Durham Community Research Network (CRN), Innovation Catalyst has been working on behalf of the core CRN partners: the Rural Design Centre, Durham Community Action and Durham University, to co-design the CRN’s Monitoring & Evaluation framework that is relevant, practical and useful to everyone.

The Rural Durham Community Research Network (RDCRN) launched on 15th October at the TCR Hub in Barnard Castle, marking the start of a five-year initiative to support community-led research across Teesdale, Weardale and Derwent Valley.

The Rural Durham Community Research Network (RDCRN) is excited to announce its first round of funded community-led research projects.

We asked two training participants, Cath Robson, from Weardale Together, and Perry Gardner, a local resident, to tell us more about their experience during the first set of workshops.

The Rural Durham Community Research Network (RDCRN)  brings together local communities, VCSE organisations, and community groups interested in leading community research.