Address It Correctly, including the correct 
    moniker (Dr. Sir etc)
Identify Yourself 
Be Specific 
Be Timely 
Explain Your Position 
Ask for a Response

Writing letters and making phone calls are simple and effective ways to change policy.  

Policy makers do pay attention - and change their minds and votes - when even a moderate number of constituents contact them on a single issue within a short period of time.   

The more personal your letter is, the more influence it has. Say what's on your mind and in your heart. Use your own words wherever possible [n.b. for this reason we have not included a form letter however you can sign an online apology], but don't think you have to write like an expert to have influence.  

Hand write your letter if your handwriting is legible and your spelling is correct. (This ensures that an official or politician knows that an individual constituent has send it). If you prefer to type a letter, make sure you sign it and add a handwritten P.S.  

It's best to be brief, clear and specific. Keep your letter to one page if possible.  

State your opinion and your specific request within the first few sentences.  

Ask the policy maker or politician to state her or his position in a response letter.  

Do not simply clip and copy sections of text from elsewher. Modify any text. Messages from individuals are more effective.  

Be courteous and reasonable. Show respect for the policy makers you contact, even when they are beahaving like a bunch of dead shits.  

Include your address on your letter; an envelope can get lost.  

Some Optional Enhancements:  

Describe briefly how the policy or legislation in question affects you personally or affects people where you live.  

Enclose an article that has bearing on the policy or legislation in question.   

If you have any personal association with the policy maker, let her or him know. Nothing is more effective in getting a policy maker's attention than letting them know you've worked on her or his campaign or voted for them in the past.   

Use your business or organization letterhead stationery if you have any.   

Politicians and officials say that phone calls and letters carry equal weight.  

In general, try to avoid sending letters by fax.  

Write or call a second time. Follow-up letters can have a much stronger impact on policy makers and their aides than the initial communication. Thank them for taking a correct stand or ask questions about any unsatisfactory answers they have given you.  
 

Address It Correctly, including the correct 
    moniker (Dr. Sir etc)
Identify Yourself 
Be Specific 
Be Timely 
Explain Your Position 
Ask for a Response 

State what issue you are calling about and what you want the official or politician to do. You can ask for a written response to your message.  

Don't be intimidated. You don't have to be an expert to tell policy makers the priorities you think they should pursue.