The Budget and what it Means for Norfolk’s Voluntary Sector

The Autumn Budget 2024 included several headline announcements that seem positive for rural communities, but as always, the finer details will determine their true impact. Below is a breakdown of key measures and what they might mean for Norfolk's voluntary sector. 

Fuel Duty Freeze. 

Contrary to earlier speculation, the Chancellor announced a freeze on fuel duty increases equivalent to 5p per litre, extending this relief until March 2026. This is particularly good news for rural communities which rely heavily on vehicles to deliver essential services; this freeze will provide some breathing room in the face of rising costs. However, as the government continues its transition toward net-zero priorities, the long-term sustainability of this policy remains uncertain. 

Bus Fare Cap. 

The Chancellor extended the bus fare cap to December 2025, maintaining it as a cost-of-living measure. However, the capped fare will rise from £2 to £3 per journey starting in the new year. 

While this extension offers some stability, the increased cost could disproportionately affect low-income households in Norfolk who depend on public transport. For rural areas, where buses are often infrequent and access is limited, the voluntary sector remains concerned about affordability and availability. A longer-term strategy is needed to make rural bus travel both accessible and aligned with net-zero goals. 

Affordable Housing. 

The budget emphasised the government’s commitment to affordable housing, with continued investment in the Affordable Homes Programme and support for smaller housebuilders. However, there was no indication of specific funding or incentives directed at rural areas. Read more here.

For Norfolk’s voluntary sector, the lack of targeted rural housing investment remains a significant concern. Affordable housing in rural areas must address unique challenges, such as higher construction costs and limited infrastructure, to ensure that vulnerable populations have access to safe and affordable homes. 

CAN is really pleased to be able to host a Rural Housing Enabler to assist communities in Norfolk to find and develop affordable housing opportunities. Read more here. 

Right to Buy Reform. 

A major announcement was the reform of the Right to Buy scheme. Discounts offered to buyers will be reduced, and councils in England will retain more of the sales receipts to reinvest in building new homes. 

This is a welcome shift that could help stem the loss of council housing stock and enable local authorities to create more affordable housing. For rural communities in Norfolk, where the housing crisis is particularly acute, this change is a positive first step. However, to make a significant impact, this reform needs to be accompanied by broader initiatives to address the specific needs of rural areas. 

Universal Credit Transition. 

The government announced the acceleration of the transition to Universal Credit for people receiving Employment and Support Allowance. While this aligns with long-term welfare goals, the absence of a promised review into the scheme’s design raises concerns for rural communities. 

In Norfolk, where seasonal work, multiple jobs, and self-employment are common, Universal Credit often fails to account for the complexities of rural employment.  

NHS Transformation. 

Alongside the budget, the government launched a nationwide engagement campaign to shape a 10-year strategic plan for the NHS. This initiative invites public and professional input via a dedicated platform, aiming to address long-standing challenges and future-proof the health service. 

However, for these reforms to succeed, it is essential that rural voices are heard. Norfolk’s voluntary sector has a critical role to play in ensuring the unique needs of rural populations are reflected in the government’s plans. By engaging with this initiative, we can help build an NHS that works for everyone, no matter where they live.  Read more and have your say here. 

What This All Means for Norfolk’s Voluntary Sector 

The budget offers some positive developments, such as the fuel duty freeze and Right to Buy reform, which could ease financial pressures and increase housing availability. However, measures like the increased bus fare cap and lack of targeted rural housing investment highlight persistent gaps in addressing rural needs. 

For Norfolk’s voluntary sector, these announcements underscore the importance of continued advocacy for rural-focused policies. By staying engaged with local and national decision-makers, we can ensure that Norfolk’s unique challenges are considered in future budgetary decisions. 

As always, Community Action Norfolk will work with partners to monitor the implementation of these measures and support voluntary organisations as they adapt to the budget’s impacts. If you need support then please contact us here.

You can read the full Autumn Budget 2024 with supporting and related documents here.