Letters

Letters are one of the best way to make contact with an external service provider or organisation when you are self-advocating. The reason for this is that it means that your issue is clearly documented on paper (for both yourself and the other organisation), the letter is dated (so you have documentation of time-frames), and it demands a response. There is no 'right' way to write a letter, however a well written letter can be a very powerful tool and adequate time should be taken for planning and drafts.

Click on the links below to access guides on writing particular types of letters. Each section has a downloadable example for you to use (these files are in an unlocked Word format so you can edit them yourself straight away)

** Remember - these are guides only and should be used at your own discretion **

Business Letter
Cover Letter
Complaint Letter
Resignation Letter
Interview Thank You Letter
Apology Letter
Recommendation Letter
Friendly Letter
Thank You Note

Some things to remember when writing a letter are:

• Be concise. Keep letters short, clear and to the point, and use short sentences wherever possible. Make sure you focus on the issue/s you are writing about. Try and contain your letter to one page if possible.
• The first sentence and the last sentence are the most important. Spend time on them to make sure they will catch the reader's attention, and leave a lasting impression
• State your case in the first paragraph, back it up in the following paragraphs, and finish with a "call to action" - what you want to happen next. 
• Avoid accusative, emotive language that will only get the reader offside. By all means refer to your own emotions e.g., "I was saddened to read of..."
• Avoid phrases like "I think" or "In my opinion". Be definite, and state your case as fact.
• Remember the topic sentence. Start each paragraph (or argument) with a clear statement that is then expanded, in the following sentences.
• Where possible, be positive (give credit where it's due), yet firm on what is required.
• Be polite. Even though you may feel strongly about an issue, the best way to achieve change is to send a polite and relevant letter.
• If you are writing to your Member of Parliament, include some background information about the issues you address. They may not be aware of or up-to-date about the subject.
• Handwritten letters are often the most effective, or else individual word processed letters. Some professionals can receive hundreds of letters and emails a day, so photocopied letters or forwarded emails will carry little weight.
• Include your postal address in any letter or email and ask for a response. Some organisation only reply via letter, not email, so don't just use an email address. If you are writing to a Member of Parliament or Politician, including your address shows that you live in their electorate.

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