Applications using reinforced brickwork are limited by the material's low shear strength. Unlike concrete, transverse shear reinforcement is not readily incorporated into solid brickwork sections. This paper considers the feasibility of using an external ferrocement coating to provide shear strengthening. Initially the paper reviews past work in this area, including the use of ferrocement for the retrofit of concrete and masonry structures. Results ofa preliminary experimental investigation, undertaken to assess the use of ferrocement for shear reinforcement, are summarized. A total of six brickwork/ ferrocement composite beam tests were undertaken, in which the amount oftensile and shear reinforcement provided were varied The future potential ofthis technique is discussed and proposals for further work briefly outlined.