As private citizens, every single one of us has the free and open opportunity to express ourselves and make suggestions on how to improve the local areas we live in. Our MP as our local representative in the House of Commons is responsible for supporting us to make our voices heard in policy making and law-making. Sometimes an MP can offer local networks or other resources to help to resolve our issues or concerns. Our Local Councillors play an important role in supporting and engaging the local communities we live in.

A letter is a great way to introduce yourself and raise awareness of issues or concerns that you may have. If an issue or concern is important to a large group of people in that local area, an MP has a responsibility to speak up. An MP is not a mind-reader and therefore writing a letter is a great way to let them know this is important.

How do I find out who my MP or Local Councillor(s) are for my local area?

Write to your MP or Local Councillor today and tell them why they must protect the Human Rights Act and why Public Authorities must remain accountable, providing examples on how proposed change might impact you.

How do I find out their contact details?

Contact details including postal address and email can be found on each MP’s website. Many MPs also have a social media presence or can be telephoned via their office.

What should I say in the letter?

1. Introduce yourself – who you are, where you live in the local area and why you are writing to them on this occasion.
2. Outline the concern or issue you are asking for their help with. Be polite and factual as a calm letter is more likely to receive a response.
3. Explain how the current situation is impacting you and give examples or scenarios about why this concern or issue is important to you.
4. Provide constructive suggestions on how you believe this issue or concern could be resolved.
5. Offer to meet with them and ask if you might be able to make an appointment to share more information such as petitions, case studies, statistics, and other examples with the MP or a member of their team.
6. Don’t forget to sign the letter with your name, postal address, email details and telephone number, as well as your preference on contact method.

MPs and Local Councillors are busy people, please remember it may take a few weeks for them to respond.