At WERN, we are continually reminded of the kindness and generosity that exists within our local communities — and recently, we received some truly wonderful news.

Organised by ACRE (Action with Communities in Rural England), Village Hall Week provides an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the amazing contribution of all of the individuals who help to keep more than 10,000 Village Halls at the heart of their communities.           

A Defra funded grant scheme reopened on 10 November 2025, aiming to support smaller projects that enhance, upgrade, extend or improve a village hall or community building.

Lyndsay Newman will leave her role at the end of August, having supported people to remain independent in their homes since 2013

WERN welcomes Action with Communities in Rural England’s new strategy

Further grant funding is being made available by government to help restore and modernise rural community buildings across England.

Phillip Vincent, a champion of rural community development, joined the charity on 1 May

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