Increasing accessibility through participation and volunteering

Our Participatory Advisory Group members and volunteers contribute to the development and evolution of our services, resources and campaigns, ensuring that everything we do is accessible, inclusive and responsive to diverse needs.  

It was so refreshing to be a part of something where I knew that when I spoke, I would be listened to. How wonderful it is to see a charity be so eager and proactive about hearing what service users have to say and then actually taking that on board and making those changes. I think that’s quite rare.”

Cassie, Participation Advisory Group Member

National Review 2023/24

Brook’s National Review explored what young people think about information they receive about sexual health. From this Review, Brook has co-produced recommendations with young people and professionals to improve access to sexual health information for young people who are often underrepresented.

National Participation Advisory Groups

The National Participation Advisory Groups completed their project/campaigns which focused on an issue chosen collectively by members.

In 23/24, the 50 members from across the UK have: 

• Represented Brook at Party Conferences 
• Contributed to Brook tenders  
• Undertaken a clinical accessibility audit 
• Shared their experiences and opinions in surveys and focus groups to support Brook’s research and development of digital services 
• Supported the development of Brook’s participatory research framework 
• Supported and promoted Brook’s RSE pledge including participating in a roundtable event at the Houses of Parliament 
• Supported the development of Brook’s work with parents and carers 
• Contributed to Brook’s communications channels by creating blogs, sharing real stories and videos 
• Volunteered at music festivals across the UK as part of our partnership with Festival Republic 

Embracing Bodies campaign

The Embracing Bodies project, an Instagram campaign developed by our 20-24 Participation Advisory Group, aimed to normalise body differences and celebrate the journeys people have with their bodies. Using mediums such as illustrations, blogs, reels and letters to self, members created a safe space for sharing experiences. Using the hashtag #EmbracingBodies, the campaign amplified stories and encouraged community contributions. With support from influencers Ruby Rare and Bodiposipoet, it was seen more than 67,400 times.  

Consent campaign

Focussing on consent and sex in long-term relationships, the 25+ Participation Advisory Group created social media content and a newly developed section on the Brook website which provides information and top tips. The Croup considered this was an important issue as many adults are expected to navigate consent within their relationships without having meaningful education or support.  

Celebrating the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Volunteering Award

Brook was one of 20 UK charities across the UK to receive the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Volunteering Award. To celebrate this achievement, Brook staff and Participation Advisory Group members attended the Coronation Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in May, and a Royal Reception at Fishmongers Hall in London in November. The award was presented by HRH Princess Anne for our exceptional work empowering young people.