Learn about the National Emergency Briefing on the climate crisis, held in 2025, and how you can help make a change with u3a Climate Matters

On 27 November 2025, Brenda Ainsley and Eleanor Brooks from the u3a Climate Matters Online Interest Group attended the National Emergency Briefing (NEB) on the climate and nature crisis at Westminster Central Hall. Experts and academics spoke compellingly about the current trajectory the planet, and shared a vision of a hopeful and more resilient future for all sectors of society, provided we all play our part.

In this online talk for u3a members, Brenda and Eleanor will share clips of speeches from the National Emergency Briefing; discuss them and welcome questions; and explain how u3a members can help by talking to their local MP and screening the NEB film with their u3a.

About the speakers

Brenda Ainsley, a passionate u3a member and trained Climate Reality Leader, brings science, solutions, and hope to the heart of the climate conversation. As a trained Climate Reality Leader and a founder of the u3a's online ‘Climate Matters’ group, Brenda has empowered hundreds of members through national talks, workshops, and u3a matters magazine contributions—always with a focus on what individuals and communities can do. From COP26 in Glasgow to the London Business School, Brenda has led intergenerational dialogues on climate justice that inspire real change. On 5 June, Brenda led a screening of the NEB film in her own community, Cotgrave in Nottinghamshire.

Eleanor Brooks rediscovered her passion for the environment through the u3a. She
is aware of the urgency of slowing climate warming and has made many lifestyle
changes. She was until May 2026 a co-leader of Climate Matters, a u3a interest group online, and has run a climate group in her local u3a. Eleanor has an MSc, is trained in Climate Literacy, and is acutely aware of the issues that will face her grandchildren in their lifetimes.

Register