During its first financial year, Rusty Rails Farm CIC established and operated Rusty Meadow, a small, nature-based campsite on the Isle of Wight, with the aim of improving access to outdoor experiences, supporting wellbeing and creating opportunities for community engagement. The campsite opened for its first season in summer 2025, providing affordable camping opportunities in a peaceful, natural environment. Free Respite Camping – Rusty's Rest One of the CIC's key community initiatives was Rusty's Rest, which provided free respite camping stays for individuals and families who would benefit from a break from everyday pressures. These stays offered opportunities to rest, reconnect with nature and enjoy time outdoors without the financial burden of paying for accommodation. As the CIC becomes more established and better known within the community, it hopes to expand Rusty's Rest and make free respite opportunities available to more people. Supporting Young People and Community Groups The CIC welcomed local Scout and Cub groups, alongside young people participating in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. These opportunities encouraged outdoor learning, teamwork, confidence, independence and engagement with the natural environment. **Developing Facilities and the Natural Environment** During the year, the CIC invested in essential infrastructure, including drinking-water facilities, solar charging facilities and improvements to campsite access. The CIC also began developing the site's natural environment, including meadow and habitat improvements, supporting its longer-term ambition to encourage biodiversity and appreciation of the countryside. Looking Ahead As this was the CIC's first year, much of its work focused on establishing the campsite, developing its facilities and introducing its community initiatives. In future years, the CIC aims to build on these foundations, expand its free respite camping provision, strengthen relationships with local youth and community organisations, and continue developing opportunities that support wellbeing, outdoor experiences and the natural environment. The CIC remains committed to reinvesting its resources into activities and facilities that deliver lasting community benefit.

During its first year of operation, Rusty Rails Farm CIC engaged informally with stakeholders, including campsite guests, local community groups and visitors participating in its activities. Feedback was gathered through conversations and interactions during the 2025 camping season. These discussions provided opportunities to understand visitors' experiences, listen to suggestions and identify areas where facilities and activities could be developed further. As a newly established CIC, consultation was informal and ongoing rather than conducted through structured surveys or meetings. The CIC intends to continue listening to its visitors, community groups and beneficiaries as it develops, particularly as it seeks to expand its free Rusty's Rest respite camping opportunities and strengthen its community activities.

No remuneration was received

No transfer of assets other than for full consideration