Dear Marie
Many thanks to everyone who joined us last week for our Rural Connectivity Member Exclusive Seminar. The discussion reinforced a simple but urgent message: digital connectivity cannot be treated as an afterthought for rural communities.
Today, we will be listening closely as the Chancellor delivers the Spring Forecast. We will assess any announcements relevant to rural communities and local government, and provide members with an update where appropriate.
This week I will be travelling to the Planet C Conference at the Eden Project, taking part in a panel discussion on rural exclusion alongside partners from local government, education and housing. The event will explore how we create a more equitable society and shine a light on challenges that are often hidden in counties like Cornwall, issues that resonate strongly across rural England.
In this week’s Bulletin, we highlight a new homelessness support package and its implications for hidden rural homelessness. We also celebrate excellence at the NALC Star Council Awards, where I had the privilege of serving as a judge.
We further highlight fresh analysis from the LGIU on deepening financial pressures facing councils, share the National Rural Crime Network’s call for evidence on serious and organised crime, and encourage members to contribute to the new Rural and Coastal Cancer Research Priority Setting Exercise.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support as we work to ensure rural communities have a strong and evidence-led voice in national debate.
Kerry Booth, Chief Executive, Rural Services Network
