Local groups arrange community screening of "The People's Emergency Briefing" climate change film in Leighton Buzzard
A powerful new national climate‑risk film, "The People’s Emergency Briefing", will be screened at the Library Theatre in Leighton Buzzard on Thursday 4 June 2026 at 7.30pm, followed by a facilitated community discussion. The event marks the start of the 4th annual Great Big Green Week in Leighton Buzzard.
The film screening — organised by Totally Leighton Buzzard, Leighton‑Linslade Town Council, and South Bedfordshire Friends of the Earth — is part of a UK‑wide programme helping communities understand how climate and nature breakdown could affect everyday life, from food prices to flooding.
The film is adapted from the National Emergency Briefing, held at Westminster Central Hall in November 2025, where more than 1,200 MPs, peers and leaders from business, culture, faith and science heard experts outline the UK’s exposure to escalating climate and nature risks. The original briefing was introduced by broadcaster and naturalist Chris Packham CBE.
Packham said the public version of the briefing is designed to spark grounded, local conversations: “This film gives communities the chance to look honestly at what’s coming, and to talk together about what we can do. These conversations matter.”
More than 800 screenings are now taking place nationwide as part of the National Emergency Briefing, a public engagement initiative supported by organisations including WWF, the National Trust, CPRE, and the Royal Meteorological Society.
Backed by climate funders Simon and Nick Oldridge, the 50‑minute film brings together leading scientists to set out the latest evidence on climate and nature impacts — and what actions could reduce risks for communities across the UK.
For Leighton Buzzard, the conversation is timely. The town has experienced bad flooding in recent years, directly impacting individuals locally. For instance, in November 2024, local homes along Waterdell and also the local Church Riverside Scout Hut along the banks of the Clipstone Brook were severely impacted by flooding. This incident, like other severe weather incidents, demonstrates how quickly local life can be disrupted, and how important it is for communities to understand the risks.
After the screening, attendees will take part in a structured discussion designed to support open, constructive dialogue about what the issues raised might mean locally — and how the community, local organisations and elected representatives can respond.
Edwina Osborne, one of the organisers, said: “This isn’t about party politics. It’s about giving people the space to look at the evidence together and talk honestly about what it means for our town. The science is clear that bolder action will improve lives — and this event is a chance to explore that collectively.”
Organisers emphasise that the event is a civic space, open to all. The local MP - Alex Mayer, councillors and community leaders have been invited to attend and take part.
Tickets are free, but advance registration is strongly encouraged via the Library Theatre website - https://centralbedfordshire.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873686062
Other film screenings across the country have been packed out and fully attended and it is hoped there is the same support in Leighton Buzzard.
Local residents are also encouraged to attend a separate documentary film screening of "Power Station" about solar power and community solidarity which is being organised by the Buzz Community Energy group. This event will take place on Thursday 11 June at 7.30pm at the Library Theatre. Book at: https://centralbedfordshire.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873686066
Further information about the wider Great Big Green Week event programme can be found at https://www.greatbiggreenweek.com and https://linktr.ee/leightonbuzzard