Your location: Contact your MSP
To make a real difference to the lives of people experiencing bad housing and homelessness in Scotland, we need to concentrate on winning where it really matters - in the Scottish Parliament.
Why contact your MSP?
- MSPs rely on your vote, so you have a right to let them know what you think.
- Most MSPs genuinely want to know what's happening in their constituency so they can improve things. By sharing your experiences you will help them to serve the community better.
- Your MSP may not know there's a problem locally, unless you speak up.
- You won't be alone - thousands of other Shelter campaigners are contacting their MSPs, plus we campaign in the Scottish Parliament as an organisation. Together we can make a difference!
Getting your message across
Whatever you want to make your voice heard about, read up about the subject in our Housing issues section first. It's also useful to:
- consider mentioning the 2012 target
- focus on local issues
- talk about your own personal experiences
- get other people on board to support you
- be persistent, determined and constructive.
Things to remember when contacting your MSP
- If you're writing a letter, address it to the MSP's name, followed by the title MSP. For example, Susan Bloggs MSP. Then your letter should start 'Dear Ms Bloggs'.
- Keep your letter brief, polite and firm.
- Ask your MSP for their opinion on the issue.
- Ask your MSP to pass your concerns to the relevant minister in the Scottish Parliament.
Meeting your MSP
Most MSPs organise advice surgeries for constituents to meet and discuss problems. These sessions are often advertised in local libraries and the media, or you can obtain details by contacting your MSP's local office.
If you do plan to meet with your MSP, do your homework and read up about the subject you wish to discuss. It might be helpful to look at our housing issues section.
