Rural citizens’ information needs

Abstract

Reports results of a study of the rural information needs in the Shetland Islands areas aimed at gaining a greater understanding of the operation of the Shetland Islands Citizens Advice Bureau (SICAB). The objectives were: to analyse the operation of the Citizens Advice Bureau in Lerwick and the use made of it by clients; and to gather data on the information and advice requirements of the rural population via interviews with 50 leaders within the rural community who might be consulted by those needing information and advice, within two parishes in the North Mainland of Shetland. Those interviewed included: social workers; nurses; doctors youth and community workers; teachers, care workers; shopkeepers, a tenants association representative; and both Community and Shetland Islands Councillors. Findings suggest that these community leaders are acting as a major rural advice and information source and that provision could be greatly enhanced if greater use were made of the Citizens Advice Bureau as a resource whose trained staff and library could provide a wider and more current knowledge base. Concludes with suggestions for publicizing SICAB services and making them more easily accessible for people who are wary of being perceived as being in need of advice.