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Our work on Local Government Finance is split into two areas, the Fairer Funding campaign and a financial analysis of local authority budgets.
The Rural Services Network (RSN) is pleased to report on the ongoing efforts to bring gigabit-capable broadband to rural communities across Yorkshire, enhancing digital connectivity for households and businesses alike. This development marks a significant step towards bridging the digital...
Connecting Devon and Somerset’s (CDS) Mobile Boost scheme offers businesses and homes in Devon, Torbay, Plymouth and Somerset vouchers of up to £1,300 towards technology to help improve indoor mobile coverage and connectivity. Hear from Peter Samwell, a...
A set of recommendations to modify geographically-targeted initiatives such as Enterprise Zones and Investment Zones to better unlock the economic potential of rural businesses has been produced from research commissioned by the National Innovation Centre for Rural Enterprise (NICRE)....
HMRC is conducting important research to better understand the challenges faced by self-employed individuals in rural areas who may have limited internet access or lack confidence in using computers for financial management. This research aims to ensure that HMRC’s services...
Stafford Borough Council is pleased to announce the launch of the Business Innovation Grants , a new initiative funded by the UK Government to support small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the borough. This...
Last week, The UK Government announced significant investment aimed at improving digital infrastructure in rural areas, with plans to provide faster broadband to approximately 312,000 homes and businesses across Great Britain. This initiative, backed by up to £800...
A toolkit has been produced to help businesses and organisations in rural areas recruit and retain staff and become employers of choice. Developed from research in the Derbyshire Peak District funded by the National Innovation Centre for Rural...
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...
The House of Commons Public Accounts Committee's recent publication has raised serious concerns about the UK's ability to meet its 2025 target of extending 4G coverage to 95% of the country. This alarming development is particularly troubling for...
The Rural Services Network is pleased to share the 2024 National Digital Poverty Overview , a pivotal report by the Digital Poverty Alliance . This comprehensive document addresses the ongoing issue of digital poverty, with a particular focus...
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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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