Rural Communities

Hot Topics

20 Jul 2026

New Flexible Bus Service Goes the Extra Mile

A new demand-responsive bus service has launched in Westmorland and Furness, offering a fresh approach to tackling one of rural communities’ most persistent challenges – access to reliable public transport....

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13 Jul 2026

Report Highlights Rural Economy Priorities

A report published today by the Labour Rural Research Group explores the opportunities and challenges facing the rural economy and sets out a series of recommendations aimed at unlocking growth...

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13 Jul 2026

New Mapping Tool Highlights Gaps in Bus Services

A new interactive Bus Mapping Tool from the Campaign for Better Transport is providing a detailed picture of where bus services are falling short across England and Wales, helping identify...

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06 Jul 2026

Rural Housing Is About More Than Homes

As Rural Housing Week shines a spotlight on the need for more affordable homes, the Rural Services Network is calling for a broader conversation about the role housing plays in...

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23 Jun 2026

Rural Banking Access Raised In Lords

Access to face-to-face banking services was discussed in the House of Lords last week, with peers highlighting the importance of maintaining access for rural, coastal and vulnerable communities.

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02 Jun 2026

Community Pharmacies To Deliver More NHS Care

Community pharmacies are set to play an expanded role in NHS care under a new £340 million funding agreement and reforms due to be introduced from autumn 2026.

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26 May 2026

New Neighbourhood Guarantee Aims To Improve Local Services

Communities across England are set to see changes to local public services under a new government-backed “Neighbourhood Guarantee”, recently announced by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

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12 May 2026

Report Reveals Rural Energy And Water Pressures

A new report from Rural England CIC has highlighted the very different energy and water challenges faced by people living in rural communities.

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12 May 2026

Chief Medical Officer Explores Rural Health Challenges In Devon

England’s Chief Medical Officer, Sir Chris Whitty, has visited Devon as part of a wider fact-finding tour examining the health challenges facing people living in rural towns and communities.

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11 May 2026

Norfolk Pub Creates New Space For Families To Connect

A village pub in West Walton, Norfolk, is strengthening its role as a vital community hub with the launch of a new children’s play area and family?friendly seating space. Publicans...

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