Fusion21 Foundation co-funds Longleigh Foundation research report into the rural housing crisis

The Fusion21 Foundation is proud to have co-funded a major new research report, offering practical solutions that address identified barriers to rural housing delivery.

Released on 7 July, at the start of Rural Housing Week 2025, the report – The Case for Affordable Rural Housing, People, Policy and Place – was commissioned by the Longleigh Foundation in partnership with Stonewater and the University of Liverpool.

Led by housing experts at the University of Liverpool and UCL, the report sets out a four-point strategy to unlock delivery, including unlocking land, planning system improvements, targeted funding, and a place-based, multi-faceted approach to rural housing delivery.

Jo Hannan, Head of Fusion21 Foundation, said: "The Fusion21 Foundation is proud to support this important research as it aligns closely with our funding priorities around health and wellbeing, employment and skills, and financial inclusion and resilience. Whilst the challenges highlighted in the report are complex, it is encouraging to see positive ways to potentially navigate the issues faced by our housing members and the communities they operate in.”

Aileen Edmonds, Chief Executive, Longleigh Foundation, said: "At Longleigh, we’re committed to creating the conditions for people and communities to thrive. Rural areas have been underserved for too long. This report provides the evidence and vision needed to drive real change - and we’re proud to have commissioned it."

Read the report here.