Northants ACRE is delighted to support Village Halls Week 2026, taking place from 16–22 March 2026. This national campaign shines a spotlight on the 10,000+ rural community buildings across England, and we are especially pleased that halls in Scotland and Wales will be joining the celebrations this year. Working alongside our partners in Scottish Rural Action and Wales Council for Voluntary Associations, the week promises to be the most inclusive yet.
Across the ACRE Network, colleagues have highlighted how vital village and community halls are to the health and wellbeing of rural residents. Here in Northamptonshire, we see every day how our halls act as the heartbeat of village life—offering safe, welcoming spaces for exercise classes, social groups, health and advice sessions, and peer-to-peer support. These activities help prevent loneliness, strengthen community ties, and support people to stay healthy and active at every stage of life. This community-led approach eases pressure on NHS and statutory services and keeps people well, connected, and thriving closer to home.
Deborah Clarke, ACRE’s Village Halls Manager, shared:
“We are pleased to announce that the 10th Village Halls Week will focus on health and wellbeing. Volunteers managing halls play an essential role in connecting people and creating resilient, healthier rural communities. ACRE will share more details in the New Year, but we expect the campaign to highlight the NHS 5 Steps to Wellbeing.”
Northants ACRE encourages all village hall management committees across Northamptonshire to save the dates and sign up for updates on how to take part. As always, there will be campaign materials—including bunting and badges—available on a first-come, first-served basis, so early registration is recommended!
We extend our thanks to campaign sponsors Hallmaster and Utility Aid for their ongoing support.
As Deborah Clarke reminds us:
“The importance of village halls in supporting the health and wellbeing of rural communities cannot be underestimated. During Village Halls Week, ACRE will showcase the valuable services and activities that make a significant contribution to resilient and healthy communities.”