This week, we are celebrating the work of one of our founding members, David Inman, part of the driving force behind the creation of the Rural Services Network (RSN) along with Graham Biggs MBE. As David steps into retirement, we reflect on his immense contributions and the legacy he leaves behind. His vision and dedication have been pivotal in shaping our network, and we extend our heartfelt thanks for his years of service.

David Inman’s journey began with a strong academic foundation, earning a LL.B Bachelor of Law Degree and qualifying as a Solicitor. His career in local government saw him serve in senior roles at Enfield Council, Dorset Council, and West Devon Borough Council. Retiring from local government in 2008, David continued his commitment to rural communities as the Corporate Director of the RSN, working nationally while based in Tavistock, Devon.

The Formation of the Rural Services Network

The RSN's inception over 20 years ago was a direct response to the challenges faced by rural communities in securing adequate government grants. David recalls the complexities of the grant formula, emphasising the difficulty in understanding and navigating the intricacies involved.

Recognising the need for a collective voice for rural districts, David organised a pivotal meeting in a hotel outside Birmingham. "We invited the smallest districts across England and realised that unless an organisation was formed, we would never get around to arguing the rural case properly," he recounted. This meeting led to the creation of what was initially known as SPARSE, later evolving into the Rural Services Network to better capture the breadth of their mission.

David highlights the challenges of advocating for rural areas, often overshadowed by urban counterparts. "Cities argue very fiercely on their own behalf, and because there's a large population, it's relatively easy to do," he explained. In contrast, rural areas face unique challenges, such as the increased time and cost of providing services like waste collection, which are not immediately apparent to policymakers.

Achievements and Legacy

Throughout Davids time at the RSN, there have been significant milestones. One of the earliest successes was preserving the sparsity factor in government grant formulas, ensuring that the additional costs of delivering services in rural areas were recognised. Over the years, the RSN has influenced the introduction of the Rural Services Delivery Grant, a testament to persistent advocacy.

David’s proudest achievement of his career, as he puts it, was "starting that meeting outside Birmingham." He emphasised the importance of the subscription-based model for RSN, which ensures its independence and sustainability. "It was clear that the rural case needed to be argued properly and that wouldn't happen without a dedicated organisation."

David's dedication extends beyond financial advocacy. He has also been a strong voice for addressing social issues in rural areas, such as isolation and hidden poverty. "People in smaller communities feel more inclined to help one another, but relying solely on self-help is not a viable solution," he noted. His insights into the increasing percentage of older populations in rural areas highlight the growing need for focused attention on rural services.

As David retires, he leaves behind not only a strong legacy but also invaluable advice for those entering local government in rural areas. He emphasises the importance of understanding the unique vulnerabilities of rural communities, noting that these areas face different challenges compared to urban centres. "Anybody who lives in a rural area or works in relation to a rural area needs to think about the potential vulnerability that can exist, which is different from the deprivation seen in urban areas,"...

David also stressed the importance of considering both local and national issues. "You need to give just a little bit of thought to the national issue as well as the general local issues," he said. His message is clear: the problems of rural areas will not be addressed unless there is a concerted effort from those within local government to advocate for them.

Looking Forward

As David retires, his legacy is firmly embedded in the RSN’s continued efforts to advocate for rural communities. The vision he instilled is part of the foundation of the Rural Services Network and what drives us as we continue our work in the future. His advice to young professionals entering local government is to understand the unique vulnerabilities of rural areas and to always consider the national implications of local issues. "Those problems are not going to be announced or argued for unless people in local government assist in that argument," he stressed.

Though stepping down from his role with RSN, David will thankfully not be lost to rural issues as he will remain a Director with Rural England CIC, RSN's sister organisation.

David’s journey with the RSN is a testament to his unwavering commitment to rural communities. His work has laid a solid foundation for the future, ensuring that the voice of rural areas continues to be heard and that their unique challenges are addressed. As we bid farewell to David, we celebrate his remarkable achievements and look forward to building on his legacy.

David, your passion and dedication have made an indelible impact on the Rural Services Network and the communities we serve. Thank you for everything.

Graham Biggs MBE, FCG, Rural Policy Advisor to the Rural Services Network, Chairman of Directors and Company Secretary for Rural England CIC

"I have had the privilege and pleasure in working alongside David since the RSN's inception. Without him we would not be where we are today. Rural areas across England have a lot to thank David for. Happy retirement David!".

Kerry Booth, Chief Executive of the RSN

"David was instrumental not only in creating the RSN, but allowing it to grow in importance and profile over the years, enabling it to become the national champion for rural services.  His commitment to communities and ensuring that disadvantaged communities were not ‘left behind’ has been evidenced throughout not only the RSN, but also his local government career.

His commitment and passion for rural policy and rural communities, has meant that the RSN is in a strong position to continue his work in the future".

Bethan Aldridge, Events and Parliamentary Lead, Rural Services Network

"Having worked with David for best part of ten years, I’d describe him in three words (or maybe it’s four) …driven, passionate and Torquay United!   

David is passionate about achieving this fairness for all by bringing together all tiers of “rural local governance” alongside large and small third sector organisations that connect with every corner of rural.  David has been instrumental in growing every key membership group of the Rural Services Network and providing them with a voice.  And that is a great legacy to leave.

David’s other passion (aka obsession) is Torquay United!  Many a discussion has been had on the woes and sometimes joys of his home town’s football club".