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Rural Economies
In the latest fuel poverty update from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero , a concerning pattern emerges in England's rural communities. These areas are grappling with the highest rates of fuel poverty at 12.3%,...
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has recently announced an important update regarding the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF). This fund, a critical component of the government's strategy to enhance economic growth in...
Last week, we were proud to host another of our exclusive member-only seminars—this time focusing on the heartbeat of our work: rural communities . This engaging online event brought together RSN members from across the country and across the rural...
The Local Government Association (LGA) has released findings from its recent survey indicating significant budgeting challenges for councils in England as they prepare for the fiscal year 2025/26. The survey underscores the growing difficulty in achieving...
We are thrilled to share that Kerry Booth, the Chief Executive of the Rural Services Network (RSN), was recently featured on the University of Birmingham ’s Future Flight Social Insight podcast. This exciting series aims to spark a national...
In a spirited debate held last week, Members of Parliament gathered to address the multifaceted issues faced by coastal communities across the country. Led by Steff Aquarone , MP for North Norfolk, the debate was not only...
The government has announced a comprehensive package aimed at addressing the long-standing issue of road maintenance, particularly the pervasive problem of potholes, which has become a pressing concern for drivers and local communities alike. Here, we outline the...
Rural families across Great Britain are facing a deepening crisis in childcare, according to the latest findings from the 2024 Childcare Survey conducted by Coram Family and Childcare . As costs escalate and availability plummets, the need...
Nominations have now opened for the prestigious 2025 Rural Community Business Awards, sponsored by Lands Improvement . The awards are an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding achievements of community-owned businesses across the UK, and the dedicated and inspiring individuals...
In a recent spirited debate at Westminster, MPs discussed the pressing issues faced by rural communities across the UK, shedding light on the unique challenges rural areas endure. Caroline Voaden, MP for South Devon , highlighted the profound rural-urban...
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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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