T: 01822 851370 E: admin@sparse.gov.uk
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 rural areas across England, the accessibility and availability of transport services are more than just conveniences—they are lifelines. The Community Transport Association (CTA) has unveiled a robust manifesto, " A Better Future for Transport: National Challenges, Community...
As the Chancellor prepares to deliver the Spring Budget tomorrow, anticipation builds among members of rural communities and supporters of The Rural Services Network. This year's budget holds particular significance as we await a general election and presents an...
Last week, RSN members joined us for our Rural Connectivity Seminar. This exclusive event served as a forum for discussions, presentations, and Q&A sessions, focusing on the crucial topic of enhancing digital connectivity in rural areas. The seminar featured...
In the face of a widening gap between rural and urban public transport services, England's rural communities are grappling with a bus provision crisis that underscores a growing divide in accessibility, mobility, and social cohesion. Analysis by the Channel...
The County Councils Network (CCN) has warned that local authorities across England, especially those in rural areas, are facing an unprecedented financial crisis. The majority are set to significantly increase council tax, a measure intended to protect local services and...
UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) has taken a step forward in addressing health inequalities with a series of innovative projects under its Mobilising Community Assets to Tackle Health Inequalities Programme. This initiative is particularly noteworthy for its focus on enhancing...
Recent research conducted by the University of College London (UCL), commissioned by the Rural Housing Network, sheds light on the critical factors affecting the successful delivery of affordable housing through Rural Exception Sites in rural England. These sites are key...
Last week marked the annual "Mind Your Head" campaign, spearheaded by the Farm Safety Foundation, also known as Yellow Wellies. This initiative is crucial for spotlighting the mental health challenges faced by those in the agricultural sector, a topic that...
In an era where digital communication has significantly reduced the volume of letters, yet the demand for parcel delivery continues to soar, Ofcom has initiated a discussion on the future of the United Kingdom's universal postal service. Recognising the changing...
The NHS recently unveiled its Dental Recovery Plan , a comprehensive strategy aimed at addressing the longstanding issues plaguing the NHS dental service. This initiative, backed by a £200 million investment, promises to revolutionise access to dental care across England,...
Sign up to receive all our latest news and updates.
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.
Sign up to our newsletter to receive all the latest news and updates.