Some tips

One letter can be overlooked. Send a FLEET of letters and you have the target's attention. Especially if you send a FLEET of letters about the same or similar themes.

Consider publishing your letter on the web. Information can be found here.

Make your letters

• Short. 100 words or less. Checking out the 'Letter of the Day' will give you a good guide for how many words you should be aiming for.
• Focussed. Address 2 points, maximum of 3 points in your letter. Try to structure it so that you make your point, say why your'e making your point, and reiterate what your point is.

An example of a letter to the editor can be found here.


Dealing with the Press.

If you make yourself visible in this way to newspapers, expect a call from your freindly neighbourhood journo.

this is great, more exposure of the issues.

2 very important things to remember though

• ALWAYS make sure your notes are by the phone!! If you have TWO phones, have TWO sets of notes!. Very useful in overcoming nerves, stagefright, tonguetieditis and other uncomfortable things.

• ALWAYS start your conversation with a Journo by saying

"This is off the record"

This compels the Journo to specifically ask " Can I quote you" leaving you more prepared for how you express yourself and helping you make sure that your position is most effectively represented.

ALWAYS cc emailed letters to your friendly, neighbourhood politician

Email addresses can be found here.



Letters to MPs can be ( a bit) longer with an emphasis on their accountability in addressing your concerns.

An example can be found here.