Rural Economies
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.
31 Mar 2025
Addressing the Unique Challenge of Fuel Poverty in Rural Areas
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...
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31 Mar 2025
An Update on the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF)
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...
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31 Mar 2025
Rural Communities in Focus: Insights, Inspiration, and What’s Next
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...
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31 Mar 2025
LGA Survey Highlights Funding Challenges for Local Councils
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...
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31 Mar 2025
Future Flight Technologies
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....
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24 Mar 2025
Championing Coastal Communities
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...
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24 Mar 2025
New Government Initiatives on Road Maintenance
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...
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24 Mar 2025
A Closer Look at the 2024 Childcare Survey
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...
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24 Mar 2025
Plunkett UK Awards to celebrate the best in Rural Community Business
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...
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17 Mar 2025
Debating Government Support for Rural Communities in Parliament
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,...
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