16/12/2025
Exclusively brought to you by the Rural Services Network

Dear Marie

With less than a week to go, the countdown is on for the National Rural Conference 2025. We already have over 1,000 bookings, and this is the final chance to secure your place. Sessions are live, interactive, and will not be recorded — so to take part in these vital discussions, you’ll need to join us on the day. Book your place and view the full programme here.

It has been a week of significant political change, with new appointments across Government. We look forward to working with the new Secretary of State for MHCLG Steve Reed OBE and the Minister of State, Alison McGovern MP at MHCLG to ensure that rural councils receive a fairer funding settlement through the forthcoming reforms to local government finance, recognising the additional costs of delivering services in rural areas. We also welcome Emma Reynolds as the Secretary of State at Defra and Dame Angela Eagle DBE MP as the new Minister of State. We will be writing to both of these new Secretary of State to stress the importance of ensuring that rural policy reflects the real challenges faced by rural communities.

This week also marks National Rural Crime Week, led by the National Rural Crime Network. As a proud partner, we are supporting efforts to highlight the visible and hidden impacts of rural crime, and to strengthen community safety and resilience.

In this edition of the Bulletin, you’ll also find the latest Economy Spotlight, alongside stories on rural and small-town bus services, MPs uniting to defend terrestrial TV, opportunities through the Churchill Fellowship, and progress on community ownership.

Kerry Booth, Chief Executive, Rural Services Network

Be Part of the Conversation at the National Rural Conference 2025

With less than a week to go, the National Rural Conference 2025 is almost here. Be part of the conversation shaping the future of rural services, discover what’s in store this year.

National Rural Crime Action Week 2025 - Seeing the Bigger Picture

The RSN is proud to be a partner of NRCN, joining forces with organisations across the country to shine a light on the hidden impacts of rural crime during National Rural Crime Action Week. 

Campaign Win For Rural And Small Town Buses

Campaign Win For Rural And Small Town Buses

For many in small towns and villages, buses mean access to work, healthcare and social life. The Campaign for Better Transport responds to recent parliamentary recommendations.

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MPs Unite To Defend Terrestrial TV As “Hidden Threat” Looms

MPs Unite To Defend Terrestrial TV As “Hidden Threat” Looms

MPs from across the political spectrum have spoken out in defence of free-to-air terrestrial television, warning of the risks posed if the government moves to phase it out in favour of internet-only TV.

Read More
Fair Funding: Where Every Rural Challenge Begins And Where Solutions Must Start

Where Rural Challenges Begin & Where Solutions Must Start

Every rural challenge from housing to transport is shaped by how funding is allocated. The opening session of the National Rural Conference will place fair funding at the centre of rural discussion.

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Funding Opportunity: A Chance To Turn Bold Ideas Into Real Change

A Chance To Turn Bold Ideas Into Real Change

Applications are now open for the 2026 Churchill Fellowships, giving UK citizens a unique opportunity to explore global solutions to the challenges facing communities today.

Read More
Community Right To Buy A Step Closer Following Parliamentary Vote

Community Right To Buy A Step Closer

Parliament has taken the next step towards a Community Right to Buy,  a move welcomed by Plunkett UK, who say it could help rural communities save vital assets and businesses.

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Rural Net Zero: Community Action, Energy Innovation, and Local Futures

Community Action, Energy Innovation and Local Futures

How can rural communities lead the way in the transition to a low-carbon future? This National Rural Conference session will explore the practical steps already making a difference.

Read More
Rural Related Politics - An RSN Weekly Review

Rural Related Politics - An RSN Weekly Review

Stay informed with our weekly snapshot of parliamentary business relevant to rural communities.

Read More
Spotlight on The Rural Economy - September 2025
The Latest News 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.

The Rural Services Network is a membership organisation and includes different types of membership depending on the kind of organisation you belong to.
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