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Bookings are now officially open for the National Rural Conference 2025, which will take place online from Monday 15 to Thursday 18 September.
This is the Rural Services Network’s flagship event of the year, bringing together rural decision-makers, practitioners, and advocates for four days of live, interactive sessions focused on the future of rural communities.
Click here to book!
Every year, the first week of June marks an extraordinary period where we shine a light on the selfless individuals whose dedication helps to keep the heart of rural communities beating—our volunteers. As part of Volunteers Week , The...
The recent expansion of the Robin bookable bus service into three new areas in Gloucestershire marks a significant step forward in enhancing transportation options for rural communities. This initiative, which allows residents to book bus journeys up to...
Last week, the Rural Services Network (RSN) hosted a vital seminar addressing the significant topic of rural transport. This virtual event, connected 64 delegates from various sectors who shared their experiences, challenges, and innovative strategies for enhancing rural transport services...
- To download the Agenda for this seminar click here POST EVENT: PRESENTATIONS Margaret Roy, Board Member, ATCO (Association of Transport Coordinating Officers) , “Rural Transport: Highlights and Challenges”...
In an era where urban-centric development often overshadows the needs of rural communities, Oxfordshire County Council is steering a course towards inclusivity and accessibility. With the introduction of five new bus routes set to commence later this month,...
In the contemporary healthcare landscape, the significance of diagnostic services has never been more pronounced. A recent report by The Patients Association ‘ Patient Experience of Diagnostics Report ’ underscores a critical issue facing the NHS and its patients, especially...
The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) released its third Rural Proofing Report last week. The document titled " Delivering Rural Opportunity - The Third Report on Rural Proofing " provides an overview of the Government’s...
In our Winning the Rural Vote Campaign this week, we turn our focus to a cornerstone of rural vitality and accessibility: Rural Transport . As a general election draws nearer, it's pivotal to highlight the crucial role...
The Spring Budget , presented last week by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, has sparked interest and concern among rural communities and their advocates. The Rural Services Network (RSN) has identified areas of potential benefit for rural areas while also noting...
In rural areas across England, the accessibility and availability of transport services are more than just conveniences—they are lifelines. The Community Transport Association (CTA) has unveiled a robust manifesto, " A Better Future for Transport: National Challenges, Community...
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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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