The National Rural Conference 2025

Bookings are now officially open for the National Rural Conference 2025, which will take place online from Monday 15 to Thursday 18 September.
This is the Rural Services Network’s flagship event of the year, bringing together rural decision-makers, practitioners, and advocates for four days of live, interactive sessions focused on the future of rural communities.
Click here to book!

Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine approved in UK

County Times has reported on news last week that a COVID-19 vaccine from Oxford University and AstraZeneca has been approved for use in the UK, paving the way for mass rollout

Health Secretary Matt Hancock MP (Con) said the approval is ‘fantastic news’ and confirmed the rollout will begin today, including to care homes.

Craig Williams MP (Con) hailed the development, commenting that the news would be particularly beneficial for rural areas because it is easier to store and move around than the Pfizer vaccine which has already been approved and requires storage at much lower temperatures.

The paper also stressed the importance of the role of GPs in delivering these vaccinations in rural areas around the country.

Full articles:

The County Times - Oxford/AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine approved in UK

Northern Times - GP practices to play important role in vaccine rollout in rural areas