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.
08 Sep 2026
Rural Banking: Access Beyond Cash
MPs from across the political spectrum have called for rural communities to be better served by face-to-face banking, warning that branch closures, poor transport and digital connectivity can combine to...
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08 Sep 2026
A National Focus On Rural Crime
This week marks National Rural Crime Action Week 2026, bringing organisations and communities together to ensure rural crime remains firmly on the national agenda. Running until 11 September, this year’s...
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08 Sep 2026
£10 Million Support For Pubs, Restaurants And Cafés
Boost for local pubs, restaurants and cafes as £10 million Hospitality Grant Scheme launches for applications Funding aims to back entrepreneurs starting new businesses, support training schemes giving young people their first jobs, and help trusted community venues...
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07 Sep 2026
Rural Economy Spotlight – September 2026
Welcome to the latest edition of the Rural Economy Spotlight, an exclusive publication for Rural Services Network members, bringing together policy developments, research, funding opportunities and practical examples relevant to...
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03 Sep 2026
Meet NICRE: Supporting the National Rural Conference 2026
Putting Knowledge To Work For An Enterprising Countryside The National Innovation Centre for Rural Enterprise (NICRE) puts knowledge to work for an enterprising countryside. We build and apply evidence, working...
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02 Sep 2026
Rising Energy Costs Deepen Rural Cost-of-Living Pressures
Households are facing renewed pressure on their finances this autumn, as energy bills rise and record levels of debt show that many people are already struggling to keep up. Ofgem...
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02 Sep 2026
£2 Million To Drought Support For Farming Households
RABI, the Farmers Charity is launching a £2 million emergency grant programme to support farming households affected by prolonged dry conditions across England and Wales. Eligible farm owners and tenant...
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02 Sep 2026
Families Urged To Check Free School Meal Eligibility
More than 500,000 additional children in England are expected to become eligible for free school meals from this month, as entitlement expands to all children in households receiving Universal Credit....
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02 Sep 2026
Could AI Make Rural Deliveries Cheaper And Greener?
A new AI-powered planning tool could help small rural businesses reduce delivery costs, make better use of vehicles and cut carbon emissions. Developed by researchers at the University of Manchester...
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02 Sep 2026
Helping Organisations Navigate Energy Market Uncertainty
Energy costs remain a concern for many charities and community organisations, particularly when budgets are under pressure and market conditions can change quickly. RSN member Utility Aid produces a quarterly...
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