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.

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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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17 Mar 2025

Cabinet Agrees Investment To Continue Projects Supporting Local Job Skills, Businesses And Communities

The Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk has agreed investment to continue projects supporting local people and job skills, local businesses, and communities into 2025/26. Cabinet has approved...

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10 Mar 2025

Government Announces £1.5 Billion Investment in Local Communities

In a significant move aimed at revitalising local communities across the UK, the government has recently unveiled its Plan for Neighbourhoods, committing an impressive £1.5 billion to rejuvenate 75 communities....

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