Leader 2014-2020: Process Evaluation

This document describes an evaluation of the LEADER 2014-2020 program, which is designed to enhance rural communities in Scotland through the promotion of knowledge, skills, innovation, and cooperation. Conducted by Eva Kleinert from RESAS, the evaluation employs a mixed-method approach, including data analysis and focus groups with four Local Action Groups. The program is found to have a positive impact on community life, traditions, heritage, social infrastructure, environmental conservation, and economic development, despite facing challenges such as payment delays, perceived bias against smaller organizations, and inflexible funding. Recommendations for improvement include faster claim processing, better support for small organizations, and maintaining a decentralized approach after Brexit. The evaluation highlights the need for further research on the impact of LEADER projects and suggests improvements in funding models and innovation focus. It concludes with a call for the Scottish Government to consider these findings for enhancing the effectiveness of rural development funding. **This summary was written by an AI model and therefore should not be considered a definitive summary of the report. If you are aware of inaccuracies, please email evaluation.registry@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.**

Description

• Lead department: The Scottish Government (The Scottish Government)
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: No other departments listed
• Evaluation types: Process evaluation
• Process methods: Focus groups or group interviews; Other
• Grant information: This intervention is not distributing funding via a grant
• Government Major Project information: This intervention is not a major project
• Policies: No policies provided

Event Dates

• Event Name: Publication of final results
• Event date: October 2018

Evaluation Costs

• Cost: Not provided

Evaluation sharing

• Link(s) to published report(s): Yes
• Links to evaluation plans: No link provided
• Links to published evaluations (DEBUGGING): No final report link found.
• Findings: Not provided
• Permission to share confirmed: Yes