Ripon Cathedral Rural Forum brought together 33 members, policymakers, and sector leaders on Friday, March 20 for a landmark event focused on strengthening rural advocacy across North Yorkshire and beyond.
Opening the Forum, Dean John Dobson welcomed attendees and emphasised the Forum’s core mission:
“This event is run for our members and for people across the county who are committed to making our communities better for all.”
A special welcome was extended to The Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP, recognised for his long-standing commitment to representing rural issues in Parliament.
Rural Communities “Always in Campaign Mode”
A central theme throughout the day was the urgent need to amplify rural voices. Delegates agreed that, while the Forum had adopted a “campaigning mode” focus, rural communities are in reality permanently campaigning for fair representation, resources, and recognition.
Championing British Wool and Sustainable Choices
The Forum heard from Diane Almond from Campaign for Wool, originally founded by King Charles III.
Despite wool accounting for just 1% of the global textile market, the campaign is driving consumer awareness of its environmental benefits, including biodegradability and sustainability.
Key messages included:
Promoting informed consumer choice through the “Check it’s Wool” campaign
Highlighting environmental concerns around synthetic fibres
Supporting the entire supply chain, from farmers to retailers
Discussions raised concerns about rising production costs, global competition, and misinformation affecting public perception of the wool industry.
Ensuring Rural Voices Are Heard in Devolution
Rebecca Proctor from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority outlined how the authority was working to embed rural perspectives into regional decision-making.
With major consultations planned for 2026—including transport, emergency services, and sustainability—the Authority stressed the importance of:
- Broad and inclusive engagement across diverse rural communities
- Clear, transparent consultation processes
- Building trust through ongoing dialogue
Participants highlighted challenges including transport gaps affecting employment, regional funding imbalances, and the need to better connect rural communities to economic opportunities.
Tackling Health Inequalities in Farming Communities
The Farming Community Network, represented by Kate White and Trish Kilner, presented on their partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support.
Their campaign, “Nip it in the Bud”, aims to address significant health inequalities facing farmers.
Key findings include:
- Rural residents are 5% less likely to survive cancer
- Barriers include isolation, time pressures, stigma, and access to healthcare
- Early intervention and community support are critical
The initiative has already reached over 2,000 people, supported by 350 volunteers and over 100 partner organisations.
Community-Led Climate Action Across North Yorkshire
A presentation by Charles Forman from Community First Yorkshire highlighted a major regional climate initiative focused on:
- Reducing carbon emissions
- Improving energy efficiency in community buildings
- Tackling fuel poverty
- Supporting youth engagement and wellbeing
The project emphasises community-led solutions, including renewable energy, local environmental projects, and sustainable transport initiatives.
Speakers stressed that climate action delivers not only environmental benefits, but also:
Reduced costs
- Improved energy security
- Stronger, more connected communities
NFU Campaign Raises Alarm Over Inheritance Tax Proposals
The Forum also heard from Laurie Norris from the National Farmers’ Union on the opposition to proposed changes to Agricultural and Business Property Relief.
Concerns include:
- Potential tax burdens that are unmanageable for asset-rich but cash-poor farms
- Risk of forced sales of family farms
- Wider implications for food production and rural economies
The NFU continues to lead a major national lobbying effort, engaging policymakers across all parties.
Call for Unified Regional Voice
In closing discussions, Forum members stressed the importance of stronger regional collaboration and strategic advocacy.
Key priorities identified:
- Economic growth and job creation
- Improved transport infrastructure
- Clear, unified messaging to government
Participants warned that without alignment, Yorkshire risks losing influence compared to more unified regions such as Greater Manchester.
Conclusion
The event reinforced a clear message:
Rural communities must continue to organise, collaborate, and advocate with clarity and confidence.
As the Forum concluded, there was strong consensus that:
- Rural voices must be louder and more coordinated
- Advocacy should remain positive, solution-focused, and strategic
Collaboration across sectors is essential to secure future investment and policy support
Event Information
The Rural Forum event took place at Ripon Cathedral on Friday 20 March 2026, featuring speakers from national campaigns, regional authorities, charities, and community organisations.
