# 2.2 Getting your MP on board

Persuading your local MP to support your campaign can be a step towards getting the issues that matter to you raised in the UK Parliament.

Writing (by letter or email) is probably the best method for contacting your MP (or any other elected representative such as a devolved representative, or a member of the Lords) and it provides a written record that can be referred to at a later date.

When writing, keep in mind these tips:

DO:

Before writing:

- Finalise a clear description of what your campaign is trying to achieve.
- Gather evidence supporting your campaign.
- Consider how your issue fits with their policy interests.
- Have a clear idea of why you want them to be involved.
- Think about what action you would like them to take.

When writing:

- Explain who you are and clearly set out the issue you want to raise with them.
- Ask them to do something specific, e.g. ask a question during a debate or session, or attend a meeting with your campaign group to discuss the issue further.
- Remember to include your contact details.

After writing:

- Give them time to respond. They are busy juggling their time between their constituency work and their job as an elected representative, so it may take a little while for them to reply. But it’s ok to follow up if you don’t hear back.

DON’T…Rant! You may not agree with them on some issues, but they are your representative, so building a positive relationship is more likely to move your issue up the agenda.

OpenLearn - Introduction to making political and social change
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