Migrant support organisations can assist their clients by explaining the process and building their confidence to take this step by:

• Explaining migrants' rights: All residents can contact elected officials.

• Assessing the situation and providing reassurance: Migrants may fear that contacting authorities will harm their immigration status. Explain that elected representatives are there to help. Undocumented migrants in the UK are not legally prevented from contacting elected representatives, but caution is advised. While casework is generally treated confidentially, raising immigration matters could have unintended consequences, and representatives’ attitudes toward migrants can vary. Before encouraging such engagement, it is best to consult or signpost migrants to trusted non-governmental organisations or legal advisers who can help assess whether contacting an MP or councillor is safe and appropriate in the given circumstances.

• Identifying and contacting representatives: Elected representatives can be found and contacted through websites like the TheyWorkForYou website and WriteToThem website. Other ways to get in touch include using a contact form on their websites, calling their office or attending surgery.

• Assisting with letters / emails: Help your clients draft a letter or email. Use samples or templates which can be found online to draft a message that includes all relevant detail, including name / address, the issue of concern, and the support needed. Keep messages polite, clear and short.

• Preparing for meetings: Offer to go with clients to meet their elected representative or connect them with someone who can. Organisations such as Citizens Advice may be able to help. Visit Citizens Advice website for more information.

Key message: By supporting migrants to write to their representatives, you will empower them to use their voice, build confidence, and engage more fully in the UK's democracy.

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