Rural Services Network

Great Britain is expected to have enough electricity to meet demand this winter, according to an early assessment published by the National Energy System Operator (NESO). NESO's initial forecast indicates that the electricity system will remain secure and reliable throughout winter 2026/27, with an expected surplus of 5.5GW between 31 October 2026 and 31 March 2027. This represents an 8.8% margin above expected peak demand and is a stronger position than during the 2022 energy crisis.

The University of Lincoln's campaign to establish a dental school in the county has continued to gather momentum following provisional approval from the General Dental Council for its new BSc Dental Hygiene and Therapy programme, including its Gateway Year. Recruitment is already underway for the first intake of students starting in September 2026.

A brief summary of current government consultations of potential interest to RSN members. This is not intended as an exhaustive list of all relevant consultations. - Download a printable version of the Government Consultations here VAT treatment of land for social housing – HMRC & HM Treasury This consultation seeks views on the introduction of a new VAT zero rate for land intended for the construction of social housing.

A monthly bulletin facilitated by your membership of the Rural Services Network highlighting a selection of current funding opportunities - Download a printable version of the Funding Digest here Peatland Restoration Sector Capacity Grant Scheme – Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs This scheme will provide funding for a range of activities that will remove barriers to peatland restoration to grow and develop the scope and size of the peatland restoration sector.

How can rural councils continue to deliver vital services in the face of growing demand, rising costs and ongoing financial pressures? These are some of the questions that will be explored during a Rural Services Network session taking place as part of this year's Local Government Association Conference in Bournemouth.

By Kerry Booth, Chief Executive of the RSN. Now that Andy Burnham has delivered his first major policy speech since launching his bid to become Prime Minister, I have been reflecting on the initiatives he set out. As a firm believer in the power of devolution, I believe this is an opportunity to have a wider conversation about the importance of place in local policymaking and ensuring that rural communities are fully recognised within it.

Several Rural Services Network member authorities have been recognised at this year's MJ Achievement Awards 2026, celebrating excellence and innovation across local government. The awards recognise councils, teams and individuals delivering outstanding public services and improving outcomes for their communities.

The Government has published a new 25-year Farming Roadmap, setting out its long-term vision for English agriculture to 2050 alongside its formal response to the independent Farming Profitability Review led by Baroness Minette Batters.

Community Action Northumberland is running a series of free Digital Support Sessions throughout July, August and September to help adults build confidence using everyday technology. The drop-in sessions are particularly aimed at people living in rural communities who may feel digitally excluded.

The Government has launched a major consultation on the future of UK media, television and public service broadcasting, setting out proposals aimed at ensuring trusted news and high-quality content remain accessible in an increasingly digital world.