Press release guidance

When to use a press release

A press release is useful when you have news to share that will be of interest beyond one organisation, such as the start of a community consultation, a new affordable housing scheme, funding secured or a key project milestone. It helps ensure information is shared with local and regional media, stakeholders and residents. Press releases are most effective when they focus on local relevance, real people and clear next steps.

ACRE and Defra would like any press releases to prioritise the mention of ACRE and Defra in running and funding the RHE programme. All press releases must include the ‘Funded by UK GOV’, as well as the ACRE logo.

A real example of a press release that was issued on behalf of ACRE is included in the Downloads Hub.

Example Press Release

Date

HEADLINE (Clear, local and people-focused – avoid jargon. Good to keep the headline on one line, around eight words) Example: New affordable homes planned to support local people in [Village/Town name]

Opening paragraph (the news – try sum up ‘who, what, why, where’ and ‘how’)

Example: Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) is working with the local community in [village/town] to explore plans for [number/type] affordable homes with a new development in [location] to meet local housing need.

Why this matters (local context)

Like many rural communities across England, [village/town] faces challenges with housing affordability, as rising house prices and rents make it increasingly difficult for local people to stay in the area.

Affordable housing can help local people remain in or return to the community, support services (such as schools, shops and businesses) and maintain a balanced and sustainable village.

The role of the Rural Housing Enabler

Rural Housing Enablers (RHEs) work with communities, landowners, local authorities and housing providers to help deliver genuinely affordable homes that meet local needs.

[RHE name], the Rural Housing Enabler for [area], said: Insert quote – keep it reassuring, collaborative and plain English.

Example: “Our role is to support the community to explore housing options that work locally. We’re delighted about this development and are looking forward to welcoming families and local individuals to this thriving community”.

Community engagement

Local residents will have opportunities to find out more and share their views through [drop-in events, surveys, meetings, online consultation – insert details].

Community feedback will help inform whether and how any affordable housing proposals move forward.

Additional quote

If you’ve been working with a developer or local authority, it can be good to get a quote from them also. You can source this by emailing its communications department. You can usually find this by searching for the media enquiry contact details, or if you can’t source this, use the general enquiries email address and ask for the communications contact.

A spokesperson on behalf of ACRE could also be quoted – to give variety and a mix of perspectives to the release, we’d recommend trying to source a quote from an external partner.

Call to action

Residents are encouraged to [attend an event / complete a survey / contact the RHE] to take part in the conversation about housing in [village/town]

About ACRE (this is called a boilerplate)

Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) is the only national charity for everyone living in rural communities. We champion thriving, sustainable and inclusive communities that have the services and the resources they need to secure equitable outcomes for everyone. ACRE exists to achieve positive change for people living in rural communities, and particularly those facing the greatest needs and challenges because of where they live.

We work closely with our Network of 37 member charities who work with communities in rural areas across England.

For more information, contact (insert media contact)

Name: [RHE or comms contact] Email: [Email address] Phone: [Phone number]