The principal aim of the Rural Housing service is to assist rural communities to relieve poverty by alleviating rural homelessness, poor housing conditions, other housing needs and related problems.

In order to achieve this aim the Rural Housing Service undertakes a number of activities including:

1. To support rural communities to work in partnership with local and national government and their agencies, housing associations, voluntary bodies and the private sector.

2. To provide advice, support and information to rural communities and individuals on housing issues and problems.

3. To establish and support networks linking individuals and groups with an interest in rural housing issues.

4. To provide information on rural housing issues to increase understanding amongst policy and decision makers.

5. To carry out and publish research projects which increase understanding of rural housing issues and which pilot innovative ways of tackling them.

6. To seek opportunities for influencing public policy on relevant matters, and advocating on behalf of rural communities.