Stronger Partnerships To Support Rural Housing Delivery

Rural Housing Enablers (RHEs) play a key role in bringing forward small-scale affordable housing in rural communities. Acting as independent facilitators, they work with parish councils, landowners, housing associations and local authorities to identify local need, unlock sites, and support schemes through what can often be a complex development process.

A recent event facilitated by English Rural brought together Rural Housing Enablers (RHEs) and Registered Providers (RPs) to explore how they can work more effectively in partnership to support the delivery of rural affordable housing.

Through open discussion and practical exercises, participants examined both the opportunities and challenges involved in delivering rural housing schemes. A key outcome from the session was a shared commitment to develop a national partnership framework, providing greater clarity on roles, expectations and ways of working, and helping to create a more consistent approach across the country.

The event also highlighted the different pressures faced by both groups. RPs must ensure schemes are financially viable, while RHEs play an important role in maintaining community support and navigating local sensitivities. Strengthening understanding between the two was seen as critical to improving delivery.

There was also strong interest in further training and knowledge-sharing, particularly around the technical aspects of scheme delivery, viability and site identification. Alongside this, the role of ACRE in supporting consistency, sharing best practice and strengthening the wider RHE network was emphasised.

Looking ahead, there was a clear message around the importance of long-term funding for the RHE network, as well as earlier and more joined-up engagement from Homes England and local authorities to help create a more enabling environment for rural housing delivery.

Overall, the event marked a positive step forward, with a clear focus on turning collaboration into practical action that supports rural communities.

Read the full article on the English Rural website:
Uniting for Change: How Rural Housing Enablers & Registered Providers Are Shaping the Future of Rural Affordable Housing

What is a Rural Housing Enabler and why do they matter?
Find out more in our article here.

RSN members: If you or a colleague has a particular interest in rural housing, do join our upcoming Rural Affordable Housing seminar which a member-exclusive session focused on the key issues and opportunities facing rural communities.

Book your place here.