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How can rural councils continue to deliver vital services in the face of growing demand, rising costs and ongoing financial pressures? These are some of the questions that will be explored during a Rural Services Network session taking place as...
Further to our story last week about the Social Housing Bill, which began Lords scrutiny, the bill is now at Committee Stage in the House of Lords. There are a number of amendments being considered which have been proposed by...
The Government has announced an initiative so that children in every part of the country to get access to enriching activities to beat isolation online and build connections in the real world. This scheme will deliver £132.5 million for new...
Last week we brought members together for our latest RSN seminar, turning the spotlight on rural transport, a policy area that impacts so many others, from access to education, health and care services and the ability of residents to find...
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...
The government last week launched the third Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy which aims to deliver 5,000 new walking, wheeling and cycling routes and 10,000 safer crossings over the next 5 years. Secretary of State for Health, James Murray, said:...
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)...
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,...
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...
June is shaping up to be a busy month for RSN members, with a range of exclusive online events designed to inform, connect and support those working to improve outcomes for rural communities. As an RSN member, these sessions are...
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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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