Stewardship at Rushmere
What it means to host steward led gatherings at Rushmere
One of the most natural things to emerge at Rushmere is that people do not just visit the farm. They begin to use it, care for it and shape parts of its life for themselves.
The mums group is a good example of this. It began simply, with a few people meeting regularly, using the space, bringing their children, clearing up afterwards and creating something that worked for them. Over time it has become part of the rhythm of the farm.
This is what we mean by steward led gatherings.
What it means to host
As an Engaged Steward, you are welcome to host small, informal gatherings using farm spaces.
This might include:
- a regular group like the mums group
- a small workshop or shared activity
- a seasonal meet up with friends
- a simple gathering around food, conversation or time outdoors
Why this sits with Engaged Stewards
Hosting comes with a level of responsibility. Engaged Stewards are people who have spent time on the farm and have begun to understand how the spaces are used, where it is appropriate to be, and how to leave things as they found them.
For that reason, hosting sits within the Engaged Steward level. Local Stewards are very welcome to attend gatherings when invited, but hosting is something that grows out of familiarity with the farm.
What the farm provides
The farm provides the space. Depending on what is suitable and available, that might be the barn, the cattle yard, the woodland canopy or another part of the farm that works well for a small group.
These gatherings are self led and informal. The farm is not running them for you. As a host, you are simply making use of the space in a way that works for you and your group.
What we ask in return
Nothing complicated. Just that:
- the space is respected and left as it was found
- activities are appropriate to the setting
- there is awareness of other people, wildlife and the farm’s work
How it works in practice
Some gatherings will be free. Some might involve sharing food. Some hosts may ask for a small contribution. That is entirely up to the person organising it.
At this level, the farm is not involved in managing bookings, payments or structure. The point is that people begin to create their own reasons to gather here, in a way that feels natural, responsible and enjoyable.
A growing community
This is one of the ways stewardship begins to take real shape. Not everything needs to be organised centrally. Some of the best parts of the farm come from people creating their own reasons to spend time here and share it with others.
If you are an Engaged Steward and have an idea for something simple, you are welcome to bring it to life.
Start small
Invite a few people. Pick a space. Keep it simple. That is how the best things at Rushmere tend to begin.