News and publications

Earth Day River Litter Pick in Ramsey

Ramsey RiverCare is marking Earth Day with a community litter pick along the High Lode, helping protect wildlife and care for the river through simple local action.

Village Hall Peer Mentoring: Support from those who’ve been there

Becoming a village hall trustee can feel overwhelming. Peer mentoring offers informal, confidential support from people who understand the realities of running a village hall.
A bus in a rural village; transport is a key issue in rural communities.

Rural Transport and Wellbeing: Why “Better Connected” must go further

Transport in rural areas is a lifeline, not a timetable. Drawing on real experiences from Cambridgeshire, this blog explores why the Better Connected transport strategy must start with people, wellbeing and access to community support.

Supporting rural communities through the oil crisis

Rural households across Cambridgeshire are facing rising heating oil costs and fuel insecurity. This article explains the support available through Cambridgeshire ACRE, including community hubs, Village Agents and practical steps to manage energy use.

Rural poverty in plain sight

Rural poverty is often hidden by headline data. This article reflects on the concept of a “rural penalty” and why rural proofing is essential to better policy‑making.

Neighbourhood health: a welcome shift and one rural communities already understand

Neighbourhood health places care closer to home and rooted in place. For rural communities, this reflects approaches already supporting wellbeing through local, trusted provision.

Celebrating Village Halls Week – learning, connection and practical action

Village Halls Week celebrates the people and places at the heart of rural life. This article reflects on shared learning, peer connection and the role community buildings play in resilient communities.

Staff blog: Five things I’ve have learnt from the first year of delivering energy audits for community buildings

After a year of delivering energy audits to community buildings across Cambridgeshire, clear patterns are emerging. From common heating challenges to low‑cost quick wins and the value of phased upgrades, this blog shares five key lessons that can help trustees reduce energy use, cut costs and improve comfort.

Staff blog: Celebrating the volunteers who keep our village halls thriving

As Village Halls Week comes to a close, Hayley Neal, Chief Executive of Cambridgeshire ACRE, pays tribute to the volunteers whose dedication keeps village halls open, welcoming and thriving at the heart of rural communities.

Land Use Framework for England: Why rural leadership matters more than ever

The Government has published its first Land Use Framework for England, setting out a long‑term vision for how land can support housing, food, energy, nature and climate resilience. For rural communities, this is a significant moment. Cambridgeshire ACRE reflects on why place‑based, community‑led approaches are central to making the framework work in practice.

Take notice: how cultural and creative activities in village halls enrich our wellbeing

From Knit and Natter to art groups, gardening and mindfulness, village halls across Cambridgeshire are quietly supporting wellbeing through creativity, connection and calm—thanks to dedicated volunteers and welcoming local spaces.

From first clicks to everyday life: How our Digital Champions make a difference

Our Digital Champions support people in community hubs with everyday digital challenges - from setting up devices and getting online to accessing essential services, benefits and health information. Through patient, one‑to‑one support, they help build confidence, improve digital skills and reduce barriers to staying connected.

Membership

Our members have access to a professional advice service, one-to-one support and access to resources. By being a member you support the work of Cambridgeshire ACRE and help us support your community.

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