Dear Marie
Thank you to everyone who joined us yesterday for the RSP and RSN AGM. It was a valuable opportunity to reflect on our work over the past year and agree our priorities for the year ahead. We are also pleased to confirm that Cllr Phillips has been re-elected for a fourth year as RSN Chair, and we thank all members for their contributions and continued commitment to championing rural communities.
This week’s Bulletin includes our initial rural impact overview of the 2025 Budget, highlighting early implications for energy, transport, housing and local government funding.
We also cover the Government’s update on the new local plan-making system, with key dates and support available for local authorities. Alongside this, we feature the new Rural Climathon Toolkit to support community-led climate action, research on the future shape of local government, and details of the Government’s consultation on Alternative Clean Heating Solutions, encouraging members to share rural insight.
We are also delighted to launch our RSN Member Exclusive Seminar Programme for 2026, bookings are now open, and we encourage members to secure dates early. Book your place here.
In our Members’ Area this week, we highlight great news from our network, including Young Somerset’s celebration of its new Bold & Brave charity gift shops and the Institute of Economic Development’s 2025 Award Winners. These stories showcase the creativity, impact and community leadership of our members. Please continue sending us your news, achievements and best practice examples for inclusion in future Bulletins and on our website.
Thank you, as always, for your support and engagement.
Kerry Booth, Chief Executive, Rural Services Network
