For every issue, only certain people have the power to do anything about it. Find out how to decide who has that power for your campaign issue.

View this information as a British Sign Language (BSL) video with subtitles below.

Targeting the right people

In any situation, only certain people have the authority to make changes. Try to identify the right person for the change you want to see. Asking the wrong people to make a change only wastes time and effort. 

Here are some examples of people who might be able to make a change and the ways in which they can do this.

Managers of services or businesses

Managers can help if the issue relates directly to their business or service. They can change policies, procedures and practices. They can tell other staff to change. They can take your concerns to the management team or board of directors.

Local authorities

Local authorities can make changes to local services they provide. These include social care, education, local roads and transport, refuse collection, etc. Staff can make some changes to the services they provide. Sometimes, they can also write to or speak to other members of staff to make them change something.  Councillors can change the authorities’ policies, decide how the council’s budget is spent and put pressure on the staff to change things.

Members of Parliament (MPs)

MPs help to make laws and to oversee what the government does. Your MP can also sometimes influence local services. Your MP can help by writing to the minister responsible for your issue, asking a written or oral Parliamentary question, speaking in a debate, writing to a local service, and more.

Members of the European Parliament (MEPs)

MEPs help to make European law and to oversee the running of the European Union. Your MEPs can help by writing letters, asking questions, speaking in a debate, and more.

Other people

Each situation is unique. Think about all the people involved and what they might be able to do to help.

Contact us if you need further information.

British Sign Language (BSL) video with subtitles