As the national champion for rural services, the RSN is committed to advocating for equitable funding across England's rural communities. Today we will be submitting our detailed response to the government's consultation on the Provisional Local Government Finance Settlement, highlighting critical disparities that impact rural areas. We encourage all our members to actively participate and submit their responses before the deadline at 11:59 PM on Wednesday, 15 January 2025.

Deepening Rural Financial Crisis

Our analysis of the Provisional Local Government Finance Settlement for 2025/26 reveals a continued trend of unfair funding allocations, disadvantaging rural communities. Urban authorities receive significantly higher government-funded spending power per capita—41% more compared to rural areas. This discrepancy is not just a number; it translates into real-world inequities where rural residents pay 20% more in Council Tax per head while receiving lesser government support.

The removal of the Rural Services Delivery Grant has further exacerbated the situation, with rural areas losing significant funding, which is crucial for maintaining basic services. These changes threaten the sustainability and vitality of rural communities, pushing them towards a precarious future with potential cuts in essential local services.

Call to Action

We urge our members to voice their concerns and support our call for a fair funding model by participating in the current government consultations. The consultation on the local government finance settlement closes imminently on 15 January 2025, and it is crucial that your voices are heard.

Additionally, there is a second consultation on local funding reform, which remains open until 12 February 2025. This consultation offers another vital platform to address the systemic issues in funding allocation. We have previously discussed the stark funding inequities and the pressing need for reform to support the sustainability of rural communities.

Your Participation Matters

Your involvement and responses are essential in shaping a fair funding landscape for rural England. By engaging in these consultations, you help ensure that rural areas are not overlooked and that our communities receive the necessary resources to thrive.

The RSN remains firm in our advocacy for rural fair funding, striving to bridge the gap between rural and urban financial support. We appreciate your continued support and active participation in these consultations. Together, we can make a significant impact and foster a more equitable future for all rural residents in England.