ACRE Event Highlights Vital Support For England’s Village Halls

Village hall advisers from across England came together earlier this month for the 2026 Village Hall Advisers Event, hosted by Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) in Staffordshire.

Held at Yarnfield Park Training and Conference Centre near Stone, the two-day event brought together around 30 advisers from across the ACRE Network for training, collaboration and the sharing of practical knowledge to support England’s more than 10,000 village halls.

ACRE described the event as an opportunity to showcase the “innovation and resilience” of rural community spaces, while also addressing the challenges many village halls continue to face.

Discussions focused on the important role advisers play in supporting volunteer-run halls, including helping committees manage insurance, modernise booking systems, improve energy efficiency and navigate day-to-day operational challenges.

Following the event, ACRE praised the “expertise, commitment and enthusiasm” shown by advisers, recognising the significant contribution they make to sustaining rural community life.

Ahead of the conference, Deborah Clarke, Village Halls Manager at ACRE, described village halls as “true community assets” that bring people together and enhance the lives of rural families. She also highlighted the importance of ensuring volunteers have access to practical support and expert guidance.

The event featured contributions from organisations including Keele University and Cannock Chase District Council, alongside specialists in areas such as legal services, taxation, insurance and energy efficiency.

Village halls remain at the heart of many rural communities, providing spaces for social activity, local services and community support. The work of advisers and volunteers continues to play a key role in helping these important assets remain sustainable and accessible.

For more information about ACRE and its work supporting rural communities and village halls across England, visit www.acre.org.uk