The RSN works to encourage a thriving rural economy in order to help support our rural communities.
T: 01822 851370 E: [email protected]
Rural Economy
The RSN works to encourage a thriving rural economy in order to help support our rural communities.
30.06.2026
By Kerry Booth, Chief Executive of the RSN. Now that Andy Burnham has delivered his first major policy speech since launching his bid to become Prime Minister, I have been reflecting on the initiatives he set out. As a firm...
15.06.2026
The rural economy was debated by the House of Lords on Thursday 11th June, with a number of Lords contributing and exploring the different issues which impact those working in rural areas, and the potential of the rural economy. The...
10.06.2026
You can download the agenda for the day here The Speaker Presentations can be downloaded below: Kerry Booth, Chief Executive, Rural Services Network"RSN services and rural policy advocacy"(Download presentation here)...
09.06.2026
The Social Housing Bill [HL] has begun its passage through the House of Lords, with Peers debating the legislation at Second Reading last week. The Bill forms part of the Government's wider plans to increase the supply of social housing,...
09.06.2026
Recent debate around local government finance reforms has raised an important question: if councils' spending power is increasing, why are many rural authorities still concerned about the impact of the changes? Part of the answer lies in understanding what Core...
21.04.2026
The Rural Coalition met with the Dame Angela Eagle, Minister of State (DEFRA) last week, providing an opportunity to highlight a range of issues currently affecting rural communities. During the meeting, members raised concerns about the ongoing impact of rising heating...
21.04.2026
Following our recent coverage of rising heating oil costs, the Rural Services Network continues to hear from members about the ongoing impact of volatility in global energy markets. As highlighted previously, rural households remain particularly exposed due to reliance on...
21.04.2026
The Department for Transport has announced a £3 million funding package to support six mayoral combined authorities in England to develop bus franchising schemes, aimed at improving local bus services and giving greater control to local leaders. The funding will...
21.04.2026
Stakeholders across the UK are being invited to help shape the future of sustainable agriculture by joining the Crop-MATCHING Multi-Actor Community, a European initiative focused on improving crop management to support healthier soils, stronger biodiversity and more resilient farming systems....
21.04.2026
Essential tools, resources and updates to help rural communities prepare for and respond to severe weather are now available through a new website launched by the Rural Flood Resilience Partnership. The platform brings together updated guidance for rural communities, farmers...
NEWSLETTER
Sign up to receive all our latest news and updates.
HOT TOPICS
Rural Fair Funding
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.
Rural Economies
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 Access to Health and Care Services
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 Affordable Housing
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.
Rural Transport
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 Net Zero
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.
Rural Digital Connectivity
In an increasingly digital world, the lack of robust digital infrastructure in rural areas severely limits access to crucial services and stifles economic growth.
Rural Planning
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
Sign up to our newsletter to receive all the latest news and updates.
Part of and working with:
