Policy Matters: Advocating for Rural Affordable Housing

English Rural’s Chief Executive, Martin Collett, photographed with Development Director, Richard DeVille.

At English Rural we are committed to our mission to address the housing deficit in rural areas by providing beautiful, well-built, decent and affordable homes for local people where they are needed the most.

One way we can drive impactful change beyond our own scope of development is by advocating for policy changes and engaging with key stakeholders across government bodies, regulatory authorities, and sector organisations. This comprehensive outreach promotes the need for affordable rural homes in these often-overlooked regions.

Central to our advocacy efforts is collaboration with government agencies such as Homes England, the Ministry for Housing Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA). These relationships are crucial in ensuring that the unique housing needs of rural communities are considered in national housing policies and funding allocations. Through these collaborations, we ensure rural housing remains an ongoing topic of discussion at the highest levels of national policy and decision-making.

In addition to government partnerships, English Rural actively collaborates with sector organisations and engages in research initiatives to bolster its advocacy efforts.

We are an active member of the Rural Housing Network, a coalition of organisations dedicated to addressing rural housing challenges. Through this network, we share best practices, engage in policy dialogue, and collaborate on innovative housing solutions. This collective effort amplifies the voice for rural communities in national housing discussions, ensuring that their specific needs are not overlooked.

To learn more about the Rural Housing Network, click here.

English Rural has also played a founding role in the Rural Homelessness Counts Coalition, focusing on the acute issue of homelessness in rural areas. This partnership involved conducting research to understand the extent and nature of rural homelessness, advocating for tailored policy responses, and developing targeted interventions. By shining a light on this often-hidden issue, we aim to ensure that rural homelessness receives the attention and resources it deserves.

To learn more about the Rural Homelessness Counts Coalition, click here.

Through these multifaceted efforts and persistent advocacy, we hope not only to provide vital housing solutions but also to champion the broader needs of rural communities. Our goal is to ensure their resilience, sustainability, and prosperity for future generations.