RURAL affordable housing will be discussed at the launch of a new booklet today.

A Home For Where The Heart Is illustrates life in rural affordable Hampshire and is being presented during Action Hampshire’s AGM this morning.

Catherine Kirkham, rural housing enabler at Action Hampshire, said: “When we surveyed residents of completed schemes it became clear that, while many were providing vital support to local family members and using shops and services, others were also contributing directly to the sustainability of their community as employees or volunteers.

“Too often the debate is about opposition to new homes with little thought for those in need in their community, or the contribution that they could make to keeping village life going.”

Sue Dovey, chief executive of Action Hampshire, added: “I’m delighted that Action Hampshire’s rural housing enablers continue to support rural communities to shape the affordable homes they need.

“Working with our statutory partners and the community, we have found examples of engaged residents who have stories to tell showing how they contribute to the sustainability of their villages and how sincere and heartfelt is their connection to their rural community.”