Dear Marie
This week’s Bulletin follows the yesterday's publication of the Final Local Government Finance Settlement. While we are still working through the detail, there are concerns about what the settlement means for rural councils. In this article, we set out what the Government says the settlement delivers for rural areas, and what this means for rural communities.
My time in London last week was well spent, with opportunities to engage across policy, Parliament and the rural sector. I attended the Campaign to Protect Rural England’s 100-year centenary event, a timely moment to reflect on a century of advocacy for our countryside and to hear from Baroness Hayman of Ullock, Defra Minister, on the importance of rural policy to this Government. I also attended a RABI reception hosted by Sarah Dyke MP which highlighted the realities of farming as one of the UK’s most dangerous professions and the vital role of practical, timely support for farming people.
It was a pleasure to be invited to the parliamentary launch of the Rural Shop Report by the Association of Convenience Stores, an important opportunity to hear directly about the role rural shops play as employers, service providers and community hubs. Read more about this here.
This week’s Bulletin covers a wide range of issues affecting rural communities. These include social housing pressures, scrutiny of postal services in rural areas, investment and challenges facing rural shops, progress on the National Cancer Plan, and fresh analysis on the digital pressures facing local public services.
Looking ahead, a reminder that our next RSN Member Exclusive Seminar takes place in two weeks’ time, focusing on Rural Connectivity. Members can book their place here.
As always, thank you for reading and for your continued engagement. We’ll continue to keep members updated as the implications of the settlement become clearer.
Kerry Booth, Chief Executive, Rural Services Network
