Analysis & Commentary

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23 Dec 2014

A rural stake for our youngsters

Do young people have a stake in the future of our rural communities? Jessica Sellick investigates. Frozen out of getting a foot on the property ladder, the most economically active...

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07 Dec 2014

Devolution: a new deal for rural England?

Devolution is often talked about in a national or urban context. But what might devolution mean for rural England? Jessica Sellick investigates. When devolution began it was a process designed...

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15 Nov 2014

Poverty, inflation and the cost of living

COST of living and inflation levels can differ for population groups, including the rural poor, finds Brian Wilson. The Joseph Rowntree Foundation has released its findings from two linked pieces...

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03 Nov 2014

Is rural life so great outdoors?

People are failing to reap the benefits from engaging with the natural environment. Jessica Sellick reports. A growing body of evidence demonstrates the contribution of green spaces to mental and...

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26 Oct 2014

More spending control for local authorities?

What services should local authorities provide and at what cost? Jessica Sellick investigates. With local authorities gaining more ‘control’ over spending at a time of ‘cuts’ and ever increasing spending...

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20 Oct 2014

What role for local authorities managing the natural environment?

ARE living, working rural landscapes integral to economic growth? Jessica Sellick investigates. The natural environment includes a range of landscapes – from uplands to urban fringe and coastline – with...

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29 Sep 2014

A healthcare settlement for rural England?

HOW can we ensure debates about health and social care address issues faced by rural communities? Jessica Sellick investigates. In 2013, The King’s Fund established the ‘Commission on the Future...

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15 Sep 2014

Changing face of rural library services

Community libraries have grown rapidly in number and are taking on a variety of roles in rural communities, finds Brian Wilson. Community libraries have grown rapidly in number and are...

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15 Sep 2014

How social enterprise boosts rural services

Making sure ‘more’ is ‘better’ – Jessica Sellick examines how social enterprises are contributing to service delivery and sustainable rural communities. Often referred to as ‘businesses with social objectives with...

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16 Aug 2014

A brighter future for market towns?

INITIATIVES set up under the 2000 Rural White Paper to help market towns may have passed into history, but their legacy lives on, finds Brian Wilson. INITIATIVES set up under...

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