A vital conversation: The People’s Emergency Briefing

What does the climate and nature crisis mean for our food, health, homes, livelihoods and the future of our communities? From droughts to failed crops and forest fires, this summer has shown what the impact of the crisis could be, do we want this to be the new norm?

On Sunday 27 September, St John’s Eco Church in Redhill will host a free community screening of The People’s Emergency Briefing — a powerful 50-minute film examining the realities of climate and nature breakdown in the UK, and the action needed in response.

Wildfires are becoming more common across the UK

Based on a landmark National Emergency Briefing held at Westminster in November 2025, the film brings together leading UK scientists and experts to explain the evidence and its implications for everyday life. It explores risks including extreme weather, food security, public health, national security and the cost of living.

Reservoirs are at record low levels

Hosted through reactions from broadcaster and environmental campaigner Chris Packham, the film also features familiar voices including Dragons’ Den investor Deborah Meaden. It asks an important question:

Given the scale of the risks, why has the public not yet received a clear, comprehensive national briefing from government?

Parliament declared a climate emergency in 2019, yet many believe the national response still falls far short of what the evidence demands. Across the country, communities, faith groups and organisations are now screening the film as part of a growing movement calling for a televised, prime-time National Emergency Briefing—similar in spirit to the briefings held during the Covid pandemic.

People's Emergency Screening Map

The aim is simple: government should level with the public about the challenge, counter misinformation and begin a meaningful national conversation about the choices ahead. MPs from different political parties are already supporting the Parliamentary Call for such a briefing.

Following the screening at St John’s, attendees will be invited to take part in an open discussion about what the issues mean locally, what practical action individuals and communities can take, and how constituents can ask MPs to support a National Emergency Briefing. Local MP Rebecca Paul will be invited to join the conversation.

St John’s is hosting the event as part of its Eco Church mission, reflecting the Church of England’s commitment to caring for creation and acting responsibly in the face of the climate crisis.

“The Church of England has a clear role in caring for God’s creation and taking prophetic action. With a Christian presence in every community in England, I strongly encourage our churches, chaplaincies and schools to host screenings of this timely and important film.”— Rt Rev Graham Usher, Bishop of Norwich

Everyone is welcome—whether you are already involved in environmental action, unsure where to begin, or simply want to understand more about the issues shaping Britain’s future. Bring a friend, neighbour or family member and be part of the discussion.

Event details

• Date: Sunday 27 September 202620262026

• Time: 2:30pm

• Venue: St John’s Church, Redhill, RH1 6QA

• Admission: Free, but advance booking is essential as places are limited.

Tickets are free and are being used only to help us plan for numbers. If you later cannot attend, please let the organisers know so that your place can be offered to someone else. The link below will take you to the event page where you can reserve your seat

https://www.stjohnsredhill.org.uk/events-1/peoples-emergency-briefing-1

Find out more about the wider campaign at nebriefing.org/the-event.