The National Rural Conference 2025

Bookings are now officially open for the National Rural Conference 2025, which will take place online from Monday 15 to Thursday 18 September.
This is the Rural Services Network’s flagship event of the year, bringing together rural decision-makers, practitioners, and advocates for four days of live, interactive sessions focused on the future of rural communities.
Click here to book!

Support for ‘Pub is the Hub’

Trade journal Catering Today reported on the news that the Government has pledged £70,000 to the ‘Pub is the Hub’ scheme to support rural pubs.
According to the Government press release, more than 30 rural communities will benefit from expanded services in pubs including village shops, libraries, post offices and community cafes. Government funding since 2012 for the ‘Pub is the Hub’ scheme now totals £390,000. Community Pubs Minister, Jake Berry, said: ‘Our great British pubs are not only place for local people to get together over a pint, being at the heart of their communities they are perfectly placed to deliver valuable services, especially in rural areas.’

Full articles:

→ Catering Today - Government announces £70,000 funding for rural pubs

→ NewStart - Community pubs to receive Government funding boost