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funding
The government has announced a package of reforms intended to address longstanding issues within the local audit system in England, which it describes as “broken” and “fragmented.” The reforms, outlined on 9 April 2025 by the ...
A monthly bulletin facilitated by your membership of the Rural Services Network highlighting a selection of current funding opportunities - Download a printable version of the Funding Digest here Libraries Improvement Fund – Arts Council England ...
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has recently announced an important update regarding the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF). This fund, a critical component of the government's strategy to enhance economic growth in...
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 underscores the growing difficulty in achieving...
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 and local communities alike. Here, we outline the...
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, MP for South Devon , highlighted the profound rural-urban...
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. This investment is part of a broader strategy...
The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has announced that rural communities across the country are set to benefit from up to £38 million in funding. Up to £33 million will be directed...
A recent report by the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) has painted a stark picture of the financial pressures facing local councils in England. The LGIU’s 12th annual " State of Local Government Finance " survey has brought...
A monthly bulletin facilitated by your membership of the Rural Services Network highlighting a selection of current funding opportunities - Download a printable version of the Funding Digest here Farming in Protected Landscapes Programme – Department for...
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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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