At Rail Safe Friendly, our mission is clear: to deliver vital rail safety education to every school across the UK. To achieve this, we rely heavily on the support, passion and collaboration of the wider rail industry.
That is why our Managing Director and Founder, Stuart, recently headed to the Derby Arena for Rolling Stock Networking (RSN) 2026. As the UK’s premier annual exhibition for the passenger and freight rolling stock supply chain, it was the perfect platform to advocate for youth safety and build new partnerships. With over 180 exhibitors and thousands of rail professionals gathered under one roof, the energy was incredible.
For Stuart, the day was packed with high-value conversations, networking and inspiring discussions about how the rail sector can come together to save lives. Here are our key takeaways from this year’s event:
1. Putting Safety at the Heart of the Supply Chain
The exhibition floor was buzzing with technical innovations, but Stuart’s focus was entirely on the human element. RSN provided a fantastic opportunity to remind the industry that while engineering and technology are vital, community safety is just as critical. Stuart engaged with key Tier 1 suppliers, train builders and freight operators to discuss how we can collectively reduce trespass and keep young people safe near tracks.
2. Industry-Wide Support for Social Value
With the upcoming transition to Great British Railways and a growing industry focus on social value and CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility), companies are actively looking for meaningful ways to give back. Stuart spent time showcasing how partnering with Rail Safe Friendly allows organisations to meet their social value targets while making a direct, measurable impact on local communities and schools.
3. Powering the Future Through Collaboration
Nothing beats the value of face-to-face connection. Stuart had the chance to reconnect with many of our fantastic existing industry partners who already support our vision, as well as forge exciting new relationships with organisations eager to sponsor schools in their operational areas. In an industry as tightly knit as rail, collaboration is exactly what allows us to expand our reach and protect more children.
Looking Ahead
Stuart returned from Derby energised by the overwhelming positivity and support from the rail community.
“Events like RSN are a brilliant reminder of how forward-thinking and socially conscious the rail industry is,” Stuart reflected. “The enthusiasm we encountered at the Derby Arena confirms that safety isn’t just an operational priority, it’s a shared industry value. The new partnerships we initiated at RSN will directly translate into more schools receiving life-saving rail safety education.”
We want to extend a huge thank you to the organisers of RSN 2026 for putting together such a fantastic event, and to everyone who took the time to speak with Stuart.
Want to help us save lives and support your local schools? If you missed Stuart at RSN, you can learn more about how to become a partner at railsafefriendly.com or reach out to Stuart directly on LinkedIn to get your organisation involved!
