How to Write to Your MP (and Actually Be Heard)
- LetterLab
- Oct 17, 2025
- 4 min read
How to make your message stand out, reach the right desk, and get a real response
Writing to your Member of Parliament (MP) is one of the most direct ways to make your voice count — whether you’re raising a personal concern, highlighting injustice, or pushing for change in your community.
But here’s the truth: thousands of letters arrive in MPs’ inboxes every week, and most never make it past the first glance.
This guide shows you how to write to your MP clearly, respectfully, and persuasively — so your message gets noticed, understood, and acted on.
Why Writing to Your MP Still Matters
In a world of online petitions and social-media posts, a well-written letter still carries weight. MPs are elected to represent you — and your correspondence becomes part of the official record they can reference in Parliament.
According to Parliament.uk’s guidance on contacting MPs, letters remain one of the most effective ways to raise local or personal issues.
But getting a reply (or real action) depends on how you write — not just what you say.
Step 1: Identify the Right MP
Confirm who represents your constituency using the official Find Your MP tool.
Always write to your own MP — not someone from another area — unless your issue involves national policy or a broader campaign.
Step 2: Use the Correct Format
Professional presentation earns respect. Follow this simple format:
Your contact details – name, address, postcode, phone, email
Date and salutation – “Dear [Title] [Surname], MP”
Opening paragraph – who you are and why you’re writing
Middle paragraphs – facts, context, evidence
Closing paragraph – summarise your request or question
Sign-off – “Yours sincerely” if addressed by name
This mirrors GOV.UK’s official letter-writing standards.
Step 3: Keep It Local, Personal, and Focused
MPs prioritise specific, individual issues over generic templates. Include:
How the issue affects you or your community
Relevant local examples or data
A clear request for support or action
“I am writing as a resident of Bournemouth East regarding the recent reduction in local bus routes. These changes have made it difficult for older residents, including my father, to attend hospital appointments. I would appreciate your help in raising this issue with BCP Council.”
Step 4: Be Clear About What You Want
Never assume your MP knows what outcome you expect. Spell it out. You might ask them to:
Raise your concern in Parliament
Write to a government department
Support or oppose a Bill
Meet with you or your local group
Finish with:
“I would appreciate your confirmation of how you intend to take this matter forward.”
Step 5: Keep Your Tone Firm but Respectful
Even if you’re angry about a decision, aggression won’t help. The House of Commons Library notes that calm, factual letters get faster attention than emotional ones.
Avoid:
❌ Insults or threats
❌ Rambling stories
❌ Writing in ALL CAPS
Use neutral language — serious, not spiteful. Reasoned arguments hold power in Westminster.
Step 6: Provide Supporting Evidence
Evidence turns opinion into persuasion. Attach:
Emails or letters from councils or officials
Photos of affected areas
Relevant laws or government documents
For citing legislation, use the official Legislation.gov.uk database.
Step 7: Proofread Before You Send
Read your letter aloud and check for:
Clarity – every sentence has purpose
Brevity – ideally one page
Tone – polite, calm, confident
As Harvard Business Review confirms, polished writing boosts authority and credibility.
When (and How) to Follow Up
If there’s no reply within two weeks, send a short follow-up:
“I wrote to you on [date] regarding [topic]. Could you please confirm whether my letter was received and when I might expect a reply?”
Persistence — not impatience — gets noticed.
Example of an Effective Letter to Your MP
Dear Ms Roberts, MP,
I am writing as a resident of Poole regarding the recent closure of several NHS dental clinics in our area. This has left many families, including mine, struggling to access affordable care.
Could you please raise this matter with the Department of Health and Social Care and confirm whether additional NHS dental funding will be allocated to Dorset?
I appreciate your time and look forward to your response.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Address]
This example shows respect, clarity, and a clear call to action — the perfect combination.
Why Professional Help Can Make the Difference
Not everyone feels confident writing to authority figures — and a poorly structured or overly emotional letter can be ignored.
That’s where LetterLab can help. Our UK letter writing help service crafts clear, persuasive letters to MPs, councils, and government departments, ensuring your words carry weight.
Try your first 250 words free to see the difference professional writing makes.
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