Tips for writing to your MP
- Provide your information – ensure that you clearly state who you are and your address within the constituency. If this information is not in your initial correspondence, you will be asked to verify who you are, which can slow the process down.
- Make clear your wishes – shorter is often sweeter given MPs receive hundreds of emails a day. Be clear in what you are asking your MP to do, in this case, speaking up on Allergy UK’s campaign asks and meeting with Allergy UK.
- Make it personal – If your letter reads like a template or generic email, MPs will be put off. Write in a personal, professional and friendly manner. Add a line of your own experience that emphasises what life has been like for you, your family member or friend that lives with allergy.
- Use the correct title – For most MPs, simply address them as Mr or Mrs Smith. If your MP has been knighted it is appropriate to address them as ‘Dear Sir John’ not ‘Sir Smith’. Dame Jane Smith would be contacted as ‘Dear Dame Jane’. Some MPs have Rt Hon. Before their name – you do not need to include this in your address to them.
Following-up
Given the high volume of emails MPs receive each day, do not expect an immediate response. If you have not heard back in 10 working days, then we would recommend following-up.