With the budget announcement by chancellor, Rachel Reeves, imminent, Cambridgeshire ACRE is calling on policymakers to address the unique challenges faced by rural communities across Cambridgeshire. The organisation believes that targeted financial support is essential to ensuring rural areas thrive and can offer equal opportunities to residents.

Chief Executive, Hayley Neal, expressed her hope that the new budget will provide critical funding in areas where rural communities are most in need, starting with rural housing:

“Access to affordable housing in rural areas is a pressing issue,” Hayley commented. “Increased investment in rural housing will enable families to live and work in their communities, preserving the heritage and vibrancy of these areas.”

Additionally, Hayley emphasised the need for funding to improve Cambridgeshire’s rural roads, which serve as vital connections for residents but have suffered from longstanding neglect. “Safe, accessible roads are essential for all who live and work in rural areas, but road quality remains a major concern.” she said.

Cambridgeshire ACRE also highlighted the importance of addressing rural isolation, especially among older residents, who can find it difficult to connect with others due to limited transport options. Hayley noted that increased funding for community-based support initiatives and mental health services could greatly help to combat loneliness in rural communities.

Lastly, the charity is advocating for improved public transport in rural areas. Hayley believes that creating better, more reliable connections between villages and towns would increase access to employment, education, and healthcare, while making rural living more sustainable.

Cambridgeshire ACRE looks forward to the forthcoming budget and remains hopeful that it will include provisions aimed at rural resilience and the well-being of communities across Cambridgeshire.