Engaging with Local Candidates: A Guide for Charities
In the context of the upcoming General Election, it’s crucial for charities to engage effectively with local candidates to advocate for the VCSFE sector. Here are some practical tips to ensure meaningful engagement:
Invite Candidates to Meet: Reach out to candidates from all major parties to request meetings. Use a template email, but personalise it to highlight your charity’s local concerns.
Plan Your Meeting: Choose a convenient venue like a local café or library, or opt for an online meeting if necessary. Prepare an agenda focused on your charity’s key issues.
Run Your Meeting Efficiently: Introduce your group and any local partners. Discuss your concerns systematically, prioritising the most pressing issues.
Secure Commitments: Aim to get candidates to pledge their support for your cause. This could be in the form of policy commitments or support for specific initiatives.
Follow Up: After the meeting, send a thank-you note and reiterate the key points discussed. Keep the lines of communication open for future engagement.
Use Public Platforms: Attend hustings and public forums where candidates will be present. Prepare concise questions or statements to raise your charity’s profile.
Leverage Social Media: Engage with candidates on social media platforms. Share your charity’s stories and tag local candidates to draw their attention to your work.
Collaborate with Other Charities: Join forces with other charities to host events or forums. There’s strength in numbers, and a united front can have a greater impact.
Be Non-Partisan: While engaging with candidates, maintain a non-partisan stance to ensure your charity’s credibility and trustworthiness.
Educate Candidates: Provide candidates with information about your charity’s work and its impact. Help them understand the value you add to the community.
Contact Us
If you have any pressing questions regarding how the General Election will affect your organisation, please contact us and we will endeavour to help.
