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The Rural Services Network has serious concerns over the new ‘fair and transparent’ Local Government Funding formula. Our analysis shows that in 2026-2027, the most urban councils will receive 41% more in Government funded spending power per head, than...
There’s just one week left to take part in the Delivering for All survey, which closes on Tuesday 20 January. So far, the response has been fantastic. More than 2,300 rural residents across the country have completed the survey, and...
The National Rural Crime Network (NRCN) has published its Annual Report 2025, setting out a year of progress in raising the profile of rural crime and strengthening the case for better recognition, resourcing and policy responses. The report highlights how...
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has indicated it is reviewing the scope, sequencing and frequency of some sub-national statistical outputs as part of a wider programme to prioritise its core national datasets. The work forms part of ongoing efforts...
Wednesday 28 January | 11:00–13:00 | Online We’re pleased to kick off our 2026 programme of RSN member-exclusive seminars with our first session of the year, taking place on Wednesday 28 January with a focus on Rural Net Zero. Our...
A new report from the House of Lords Economic Affairs Committee has warned that the UK is significantly underprepared for the economic and social impacts of an ageing population. The report, Preparing for an ageing society, highlights how rising life...
The government has announced a major milestone in improving mobile connectivity across rural Britain, with more than 100 mobile masts now upgraded to provide 4G coverage from all major mobile network operators for the first time. Delivered through the Shared...
The Government has published the provisional local government finance settlement for 2026/27, outlining planned funding allocations for local authorities in England and launching a statutory consultation on its proposals. While the final figures are still subject to confirmation through this...
As we look to 2026, the context for rural services and local governance continues to evolve. Local government structures may shift. Strategic authorities may develop. Boundaries may change. But regardless of how governance is reshaped, one principle must remain firm:...
We are proud to share that Cllr Roger Phillips, Chair of the Rural Services Network, has been awarded an OBE in the New Year Honours List 2026 for services to the community of Herefordshire. The honour recognises nearly three decades...
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HOT TOPICS
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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