16/03/2026
Exclusively brought to you by the Rural Services Network

Dear Marie

Welcome to this week’s Rural Bulletin. Alongside our latest news and policy updates, we are pleased to share that the December Member-Exclusive Funding Digest is now available.

This week’s articles explore key issues for rural communities, including new research on whether England’s devolution programme will deliver for rural areas, especially on affordable housing and planning.

We are delighted to showcase the finalists of the NALC Star Council Awards, with several RSN members recognised for their leadership.

We cover the Government’s £3bn bus funding settlement and share Trussell’s latest analysis showing food banks preparing for a significant winter surge in demand. We also summarise last week’s Westminster Hall debate on homelessness where rural homelessness was directly raised as a hidden and underfunded issue and outline the Department for Education’s new National Conversation on SEND.

A reminder that our 2026 RSN Member Exclusive Seminar Programme is now live, with bookings open. These sessions are an important opportunity for members to hear the latest policy insights, share best practice and learn from colleagues across rural England, we encourage you to book your place here.

As always, we love sharing member news. If your organisation has updates, achievements, events or best practice that you would like to see featured in the Bulletin or on our website, please do send them in.

Thank you for your continued engagement and support.

Kerry Booth, Chief Executive, Rural Services Network

Will Devolution Deliver For Rural Communities?

Devolution offers major new powers over housing and planning. But will rural areas benefit? New research from CCRI reveals the opportunities, risks and the steps needed to ensure affordable homes are delivered in rural communities. 

NALC Announces Star Council Awards 2025/26 Finalists
The finalists for NALC’s Star Council Awards have been revealed, with several RSN member councils among those recognised for excellence and community impact. Our Chief Executive, Kerry Booth, also joins this year’s judging panel. 
£3bn Funding Settlement Unveiled For Local Bus Services

£3bn Funding Settlement Unveiled For Local Bus Services

The government has confirmed £3bn to boost local bus networks, with new powers and long-term funding for councils to improve routes, reliability &  affordability. 
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Food Banks Brace For Winter Surge
Food Banks Brace For Winter Surge

What will England’s local government landscape look like by 2050? A LGIU report explores the emerging system of strategic authorities, gaps in clarity, and the key choices facing policymakers.

Read More
Adequacy Of Funding To Support Homeless People
Adequacy Of Funding To Support Homeless People

MPs warn homelessness funding is falling short, especially in rural areas, where need is rising but often unseen. Read the key takeaways from the debate.

Read More
National Conversation On SEND Reform Begins
National Conversation On SEND Reform Begins
Parents, carers and professionals can now share their voices in the Government’s new national conversation on SEND. With events running nationwide, here’s how you can take part.
Read More
Add Your Voice to the Delivering for All Survey

Add Your Voice to the Delivering for All Survey

Add your voice to our Delivering for All survey and help strengthen the rural case. Your responses will inform Government, MPs and Select Committees.
Read More
Rural Funding Digest - December 25

Rural Funding Digest 

Read this month's Funding Digest, a member-exclusive resource provided by the Rural Services Network.
Read More
This Week's Rural Related Politics
The Latest From Our Members
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The Rural Services Network encompasses a wide range of partners and organisations who all work together to help provide a voice for rural communities. We represent over 500 organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors including leading national bodies, local authorities, utility companies, health trusts, housing associations, grass root community organisations and more.

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