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The Rural Services Network (RSN) is thrilled to announce the National Rural Conference 2024, taking place from 16th to 19th September. This virtual event, accessible via Zoom, is the premier gathering for senior officers, members, policymakers, and rural service professionals.
Further information and booking details can be found here
In the tranquil settings of rural Britain, there exists a significant challenge that often goes unnoticed—digital connectivity. Ensuring equitable digital access across all areas is a pressing issue, affecting the day-to-day lives and long-term opportunities for those living in the...
New powers for communities to regenerate high streets and fill empty shops will be in force by the summer, the government announced last week. High Street Rental Auctions, a new local authority power to combat high street vacancy, will...
During this Mental Health Awareness Week, it is crucial to spotlight the unique challenges faced by rural communities in accessing health and care services. These challenges, ranging from limited transport options to an aging demographic, significantly affect the mental and...
Rural communities in England are currently facing significant challenges due to the closures of community pharmacies, a vital resource for healthcare access in less densely populated areas. The recent peak in these closures prompts a critical evaluation of their impact...
This past Bank Holiday weekend, while numerous families ventured to the serene landscapes of England's rural and coastal areas, it marked not just a period for relaxation but also a moment for reflection on the crucial role rural and coastal...
The latest research commissioned by the National Housing Federation (NHF) reveals critical insights into the future demand for supported housing in England by 2040. With an aging population and increasing needs for varied support services, a...
In a determined Westminster Hall debate last week on Government Funding for Local Authorities , concerns were sharply voiced regarding the financial sustainability of rural councils, particularly highlighted by Helen Morgan, MP for North Shropshire. The focus was squarely...
Rural councils across the UK are facing increasing financial strain, as demonstrated by the alarming trend of selling public assets to cover revenue shortfalls. A recent BBC report reveals the extent to which some councils are resorting to...
The housing crisis in rural England has sparked debate over the impact of second homes and holiday lets on local communities. A recent BBC report sheds light on the growing challenges faced by towns and villages across East...
Considering recent findings from the research titled " The gainers and losers from the United Kingdom’s university-related migration: A subregional analysis of Graduate Outcomes Survey data " published by The Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI), there is an...
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Amid reduced public spending, fair resource allocation across regions is crucial. Despite a population larger than Greater London, rural areas receive significantly less funding for essential services, even though delivering these services in rural areas is more expensive.
Economic growth is widely acknowledged as essential for national wealth and prosperity and is a priority for political parties. Rural economies, employing millions and home to a higher proportion of small businesses, have potential for growth if barriers are removed.
Rural residents face distinct healthcare challenges, including limited access to transport, longer distances to medical facilities, an aging demographic, housing inadequacies, digital connectivity gaps, and difficulties recruiting health and care workers.
Rural communities are grappling with a severe affordable housing crisis, marked by high house prices, a lack of affordable housing, elevated living costs, and lower incomes, threatening their sustainability and vitality.
Transport is vital for the quality of life and economic health of rural areas, yet it faces challenges such as infrequent public bus services and less Government funding compared to urban regions.
Rural areas, encompassing a substantial portion of England's population and land, play a pivotal role in combating climate change and achieving the net zero target.
In an increasingly digital world, the lack of robust digital infrastructure in rural areas severely limits access to crucial services and stifles economic growth.
A future-focused vision for rural communities involves not just building the right homes in the right places but also ensuring thriving, sustainable communities.
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