Preserving Rural Identity Amid Devolution
Hi, I’m Stephanie Akerman, founder of Savvy Business Management, local councillor for Checkley Parish Council, volunteer youth leader at Tean Youth Club, and trustee at Great Wood Community Hall.
My mission is supporting businesses, charities, local councils, and entrepreneurs to strategically achieve their objectives and build strong community engagement. With a blend of professional experience and community involvement, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities faced by rural areas.
This week, I’m breaking down what devolution is, how it could affect rural areas like ours, and why it’s not something that should be quietly accepted without question.
What is Devolution?
Devolution involves transferring powers, responsibilities, and budgets from the central government to local or regional authorities. The idea is to allow communities to make decisions locally, leading to policies and investments that reflect local priorities and needs. Examples include local control over transport, education, healthcare, planning, and economic development.
However, while devolution sounds positive in theory, the practical implications vary significantly depending on how the process is structured and implemented, especially for rural communities.
Why Devolution Matters for Rural Areas
Although devolution has the potential to bring benefits, there is growing concern that the unique identity and needs of rural communities could be overlooked. Proposals often group rural areas with larger urban centres, creating broad constituencies that weaken the rural voice.
Urban and rural areas have very different priorities. Urban areas focus on housing developments, job creation in dense populations, and infrastructure that suits city living. Rural communities, on the other hand, face challenges like limited public transport, rural isolation, agricultural needs, and preserving local traditions and services.
If rural communities are merged with urban centres, their specific challenges risk becoming secondary, leading to less investment in rural services and infrastructure.
My Personal Experience as a Councillor
In my role as a local councillor at Checkley Parish Council, I’ve noticed several issues when it comes to the current devolution discussions:
• Limited Communication: I’ve received little information or guidance from central or regional authorities about the process.
• Information Gap: Because of this, I’ve had to find my own information and support to stay up to date.
• Community Uncertainty: This lack of clarity has understandably created confusion and concern locally around what changes might mean for governance and services.
Why We Must Keep Rural Voices Heard
The ability of rural areas to develop and sustain themselves depends on having policies tailored to their circumstances. For businesses, charities, entrepreneurs, and local councils, decisions that fail to consider rural needs can cause real problems.
Local businesses and charities may struggle to secure funding, rural entrepreneurs might not have access to appropriate support, and councils could find it difficult to maintain essential services like transport, education, healthcare, and community facilities.
Making sure rural voices are heard clearly and consistently helps to protect rural livelihoods, communities, and local economies.
What You Can Do
• Engagement: Take part in community conversations and consultations on devolution. Sharing your insight helps highlight rural issues.
• Collaboration: Work with local leaders, businesses, and councils to present a united rural voice. Collaboration strengthens influence.
• Advocacy: Support people in government who understand rural challenges and are committed to standing up for these issues. Strong advocacy helps make sure rural areas aren’t forgotten.
Conclusion
Devolution will shape the future of how decisions are made locally, but it’s essential that rural communities are not left behind in the process. By understanding what devolution is, recognising its impact, and staying involved in discussions, we can help ensure that rural needs are considered and protected.
If you run a business, charity, or work within local government, now is the time to be proactive. Keep asking questions, stay informed, and connect with others who share these concerns. Rural identity and priorities matter, and together, we can make sure they are not ignored.
Support & Resources for Your Organisation
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Thank You for Reading
Thank you for being part of this conversation. Through clear planning, collaboration, and standing up for rural needs, we can protect the identity of our rural areas and make sure our voices continue to shape the future.
I’d love to hear your thoughts, experiences, and questions.
Steph
Founder, Savvy Business Management | Local Councillor | Community Volunteer | Trustee
