 In this week’s bulletin, we look at the implications of the King’s Speech. The legislative priorities outlined have profound effects on rural areas, and our analysis explores these potential impacts. As we continue to advocate for fair funding and recognition of rural needs, it’s crucial to understand how these new bills could shape our future. View our reactions to the King’s Speech here. I had the privilege of attending the launch of the Devon Housing Commission report at Exeter University last week. This critical document highlights the severe housing crisis in Devon, emphasising the urgent need for coordinated action to address the housing challenges faced by our rural communities. The report calls for innovative solutions and greater support for affordable housing to ensure sustainable development in our region. Find out more and read the report in full here. Additionally, we’re excited to announce BT as one of our esteemed sponsors for the National Rural Conference 2024. Along with our other valued sponsors and supporters, BT plays a crucial role in making this event possible. Read more here  Unlocking Rural Potential: Insights and Reactions to the King’s Speech Last week at the opening of parliament, The King’s Speech highlighted a series of legislative priorities aimed at addressing critical national issues. A number of these new bills hold significant implications for rural communities, which often face unique challenges that differ from their urban counterparts. At the Rural Services Network, we are committed to ensuring that the voices and needs of rural areas are recognised and addressed in national policy. Read more  |
| Devon’s Housing Crisis: Urgent Action Required Deputy Prime Minister Launches Devolution Initiative to Empower Communities NFU Survey Reveals Connectivity Issues Still Holding Back Farmers National Rural Conference Sponsor Spotlight: BT Councils Call for Delay to Unfunded Cap on Care, Warning of £30bn Shortfall Rural Related Politics – An RSN weekly review |
| Corinne Pluchino, ACRE’s new chief executive, reflects on her first fifty days in post “One hundred days into a new role is often seen as a good moment for reflection, to consider new connections, fresh insights and, occasionally, unexpected surprises. In my case, however, so much has already happened since I joined ACRE in May – not least the election of a new government – that fifty days in seems like a good moment to take stock. Interestingly, many of the things that have made the most impression on me are directly relevant to how rural communities are perceived and supported by policy makers. Firstly, I have been reminded of just how many different issues and organisations shape rural life. I have particularly enjoyed getting to know my new colleagues across the ACRE Network, consisting of 38 organisations delivering vital support to rural communities across England. Their expertise and intimate local knowledge offers unique insight into what is really going on at a community level”. Read more Looking for funding for your local project or community group? Read the latest edition of the Funding Digest here Read the latest Government Consultations that may be relevant to rural communities here Member Insights is the place to discover the statistics that define communities within our membership Visit the Members Insights here Find out about our campaign for fairer funding for rural areas here This includes our work on the Local Government Finance Settlement  The Rural Services Network encompasses a wide range of partners and organisations who all work together to help provide a voice for rural communities. Over 20,000 members belong to the network. We represent over 500 organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors including leading national bodies, local authorities, utility companies, health trusts, housing associations, grass root community organisations and more. The Rural Services Network is a membership organisation and includes different types of membership depending on the kind of organisation you belong to. For further details click here This Rural Bulletin is published by the Rural Services Network and brings you a round up of our existing publications in one place. If you have any comments on the Rural Bulletin, please contact us here. |
