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Village hall groups across the UK are being encouraged to put 17-23 March 2025 in their diaries by Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE). The charity hopes to use the week as an opportunity to spotlight the efforts...
The Chancellor's Autumn Budget 2024 presents a critical juncture for rural communities across the UK. As we pore over the details in the comprehensive budget document, the Rural Services Network (RSN) acknowledges the government's efforts to address broad...
In a significant collaborative effort, the Rural Services Network, alongside several key organisations, has sent a joint letter to Matthew Pennycook MP, the Minister of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government. Authored by leaders from CPRE , ...
One hundred days into a new role is often seen as a good moment for reflection, to consider new connections, fresh insights and, occasionally, unexpected surprises. In my case, however, so much has already happened since I joined ACRE in...
ACRE , Plunkett UK , and the Rural Services Network (RSN) have jointly signed an open letter addressing significant concerns regarding Royal Mail. The letter is directed to the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, emphasising the importance...
ACRE is pleased to confirm that village hall management committees can apply once again for larger grants to improve their buildings The fund , which was originally announced to mark the Late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee has reopened for...
Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) is urging politicians of all persuasions not to forget the needs and circumstances of people living and working in the countryside in the run up to the general election. The charity...
The Chancellor’s announcement of £5 million towards the Platinum Jubilee Village Hall Fund for England is a significant win for rural communities. This timely injection of funds arrives as we approach Village Halls Week, a celebration of these crucial community...
Defra funded grant scheme reopens for those managing rural community buildings, this time with a lower award threshold of £2, 000 to support smaller projects and make it accessible to more groups. In 2023, a £3 million village halls...
New research by Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) paints a picture of how organisations supporting rural communities have adapted post pandemic, and in response to the cost-of-living crisis. A lack of transport was cited as the biggest...
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Amid reduced public spending, fair resource allocation across regions is crucial. Despite a population larger than Greater London, rural areas receive significantly less funding for essential services, even though delivering these services in rural areas is more expensive.
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.
Rural residents face distinct healthcare challenges, including limited access to transport, longer distances to medical facilities, an aging demographic, housing inadequacies, digital connectivity gaps, and difficulties recruiting health and care workers.
Rural communities are grappling with a severe affordable housing crisis, marked by high house prices, a lack of affordable housing, elevated living costs, and lower incomes, threatening their sustainability and vitality.
Transport is vital for the quality of life and economic health of rural areas, yet it faces challenges such as infrequent public bus services and less Government funding compared to urban regions.
Rural areas, encompassing a substantial portion of England's population and land, play a pivotal role in combating climate change and achieving the net zero target.
In an increasingly digital world, the lack of robust digital infrastructure in rural areas severely limits access to crucial services and stifles economic growth.
A future-focused vision for rural communities involves not just building the right homes in the right places but also ensuring thriving, sustainable communities.
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