Brook’s 2026-2029 strategy

Helen Marshall, Brook’s Chief Executive, and Dame Sally Dicketts, Brook’s Chair, are proud to introduce our new strategic plan for 2026-2029. Developed in collaboration with staff, supporters and those who use our services, it sets out our unwavering commitment and ambition within an undeniably turbulent environment.

The demand for Brook’s services is increasing.

Data from the UK Health Security Agency demonstrates soaring demand for sexual health services; sexually transmitted infections and teenage pregnancy rates are rising, and we are facing an unprecedented crisis in children and young people’s mental health. Women experience poorer health outcomes than men, with Black women and disabled women particularly impacted.

Women and girls are experiencing increasing incidences of sexual violence, harassment and misogyny, with boys and young men struggling in education, less likely to access stable work and more likely to be caught up in crime.

LGBT+ people experience unequal treatment and care, trans people report feeling unsafe in the UK, and the health disparities faced by trans, non-binary and gender diverse people has been described as a public health crisis. We are saddened that social media and online spaces have increased the spread of mis/disinformation which we know drives shame and threatens safe decision-making.

This growth in demand is set against the context of mounting financial pressures within the charitable sector. With a backdrop of surging costs, charities are experiencing falling donations, increased competition for grants, and public sector contracts that often fail to cover the true cost of delivering services. While demand for services increases, charities are being forced to reduce expenditure, scale back delivery and rely on reserves to meet core costs.

Within this landscape, it is essential that Brook continues to innovate, working efficiently and sustainably to support those who need us the most.

Our holistic services have always recognised the interwoven links between sexual, physical and mental health, and the importance of healthy relationships.

Through the delivery of this strategic plan, we will develop and co-design specialist services for those who experience additional barriers and we will work collaboratively – with sector partners, with local communities and with our service users – to amplify our collective impact through shared intelligence, joint advocacy, thought leadership and service user voice.

We remain true to our mission and values, shouting louder, fighting harder, and being bold and fearless in defending rights.

Our strategic plan is ambitious but by working together we believe it is achievable.