News and publications

Martyn’s Law: Update for village hall trustees and volunteers

What does Martyn’s Law mean for village halls? Find out what trustees and volunteers need to know, which premises may be in scope and the practical steps committees can take now.

Energy bills are rising: what you need to know this winter

Energy bills rose again in October 2026, with further increases forecast for January. Find out what the Energy Price Cap means, ways to check your costs and where to get help with energy bills in Cambridgeshire.

Helping rural communities stay safe: meet your local community safety team

Learn how Community Safety Partnerships and local Problem-Solving Co-ordinators are helping rural communities across Cambridgeshire tackle anti-social behaviour, fly-tipping, speeding and other local concerns. Discover the support, funding opportunities and local contacts available to help keep your community safe.

Flood Action Week: preparing our homes and communities

Flood Action Week is a chance to prepare our homes and communities for flooding. Find practical advice, local resources and simple steps you can take to understand your risk and support others across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

The rising cost of keeping rural communities warm and connected

Rising rural heating costs are placing increasing pressure on off-grid households and community buildings across Cambridgeshire. Discover how higher heating oil prices, fuel costs and energy bills are affecting local communities and what support is available.

Fenstanton Community Hall opens its doors

The new Fenstanton Community Hall has officially opened, providing a modern space for residents to meet, learn, celebrate and connect. Cambridgeshire ACRE congratulates the volunteers and trustees who made this important community project a reality.

Why village halls should act now on 0% VAT for energy-saving improvements

Village halls have a limited opportunity to benefit from 0% VAT on qualifying energy-saving improvements before the relief ends in March 2027. Learn how an energy audit can help your committee prioritise projects, secure funding and reduce long-term energy costs.

More than coffee and cake: a morning of conversation, connection and support

At a busy Macmillan Coffee Morning in March, Fenland Community Cancer Champions Project Manager Kathy experienced first-hand the power of conversation. Read how community connections, shared experiences and local cancer support can make a real difference.

What difference can a cup of tea make? More than you might think

Fenland Village Agent Lucille Bingham shares how community hubs offer more than tea and conversation. Discover how these welcoming spaces help reduce loneliness, foster social connection and create a sense of belonging for people of all ages across rural Cambridgeshire.

Neighbourhood health needs neighbourhood infrastructure

Neighbourhood health is about more than healthcare services. Strong community infrastructure, including local organisations, volunteers, transport schemes and village halls, plays a vital role in prevention, wellbeing and helping people live independently, particularly in rural communities.

Rising heating oil prices put rural Cambridgeshire households under pressure

More than 27,000 Cambridgeshire households rely on heating oil, with prices rising by around 82 per cent in a year. Discover why Cambridgeshire ACRE is calling for fairer support for off-grid households facing fuel poverty and high upfront energy costs.

Community buildings matter more than we think

A Government evaluation has found that investment in community buildings can increase local pride, support skills development and strengthen community resilience. The findings highlight why village halls and community centres remain essential assets for rural communities and reinforce the need for long-term support and futureproofing.

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