RSN Hosts Rural Housing Week Member Seminar

As part of Rural Housing Week 2025, the Rural Services Network was pleased to host a member-exclusive seminar on Rural Affordable Housing on Wednesday 9 July. The session brought together members from accross the country for an in-depth discussion on the policies, challenges, and innovative solutions shaping affordable housing delivery in rural areas.

Chaired by RSN Chief Executive Kerry Booth, the seminar explored both national and local perspectives. Kerry opened the event by setting out the pressing need for affordable housing in rural communities and underlining RSN’s ongoing Delivering for All campaign. The campaign calls for fair funding, accurate rural metrics, and a rural-specific housing plan that ensures no community is left behind.

We were delighted to welcome three expert speakers:

Adam Gravely, Policy Officer at the National Housing Federation, provided a powerful overview of the national housing crisis and its rural dimensions. Drawing on professional and personal experience, Adam outlined how rural social housing can be transformational and called for a long-term housing plan including building 300,000 homes a year with at least 40% affordable. He also discussed government announcements, including a £39 billion social and affordable homes programme, and stressed the importance of early engagement on Section 106 agreements.

Tim Gwilliam MBE, representing the Gloucestershire Rural Community Council, spoke candidly about the housing pressures in rural Gloucestershire. He highlighted the viability issues for small-scale developments, the loss of affordable homes through resale, and the need for stronger local connection clauses. Tim also emphasised the role of community-led housing and the importance of pre-engagement with residents, particularly in villages where resistance can be overcome through early dialogue.

Harry Thomson, Senior Business Development Manager at Evouchers, introduced an innovative digital platform that allows local authorities and housing associations to distribute financial support such as hardship and fuel vouchers. The system is free to use (with organisations only covering the voucher value) and provides fast, secure, and dignified support for residents. Delegates heard how the platform, developed during the pandemic, is already helping councils deliver vital aid efficiently and transparently.

The seminar also included an open forum for RSN members to reflect on wider housing-related issues. Discussion points included:

• The rising pressure on housing registers
• The effect of short-term lets and second homes on rural affordability
• The need for better data at the local level to support planning decisions
• Risks and opportunities posed by devolution and local government reorganisation

Members shared best practice, highlighted local examples, and reinforced the value of collective learning through the RSN network.

We would like to thank all attendees for their contributions and continued engagement, and we are especially grateful to our three speakers for sharing their expertise and practical insight. These member seminars are a vital part of the RSN offer — bringing together those working at the sharp end of rural service delivery and enabling knowledge-sharing that drives policy influence and local innovation.

Save the date: The National Rural Conference 2025 takes place online from 15–18 September, with the Rural Affordable Housing and Planning Session scheduled for Tuesday 16 September.

Conference Bookings are now open, RSN members can book here