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A new policy framework from the Rural Services Network Every person, in every place, deserves the chance to thrive — including those living in rural, coastal and small-town communities. The Rural Services Network is proud to launch Delivering for All:...
A new demand-responsive bus service has launched in Westmorland and Furness, offering a fresh approach to tackling one of rural communities' most persistent challenges - access to reliable public transport. Developed by Westmorland and Furness Council, The Extra Mile is...
With the summer holidays now underway in some parts of England and just about to begin in others, there is some welcome news for many families. Throughout August, children aged 5 to 15 will be able to travel free on...
A new interactive Bus Mapping Tool from the Campaign for Better Transport is providing a detailed picture of where bus services are falling short across England and Wales, helping identify communities most in need of improved public transport. Using a...
Last week marked Better Transport Week, an annual opportunity to highlight the important role transport plays in connecting people with jobs, services, opportunities and each other. For rural communities, transport remains a vital part of everyday life. It enables residents...
As Better Transport Week takes place across the UK this week, attention is once again turning to the role transport plays in connecting people with jobs, services, opportunities and each other. For rural communities, those conversations are particularly important. While...
Last week we brought members together for our latest RSN seminar, turning the spotlight on rural transport, a policy area that impacts so many others, from access to education, health and care services and the ability of residents to find...
The government last week launched the third Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy which aims to deliver 5,000 new walking, wheeling and cycling routes and 10,000 safer crossings over the next 5 years. Secretary of State for Health, James Murray, said:...
Next week (15–21 June) marks Better Transport Week 2026, a national celebration of the role that transport plays in connecting people and places. Organised by Campaign for Better Transport, this year's theme focuses on the importance of transport in bringing...
You can download the agenda for the day here The Speaker Presentations can be downloaded below: Kerry Booth, Chief Executive, Rural Services Network"Welcome & Introduction to the topic of Rural...
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HOT TOPICS
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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