Visiting an MP’s surgery

Before you go to an MP’s surgery, it is always a good idea to have sent them a letter about the issue you wish to raise beforehand.

Many MPs have information on the times and places of their regular surgeries on their own websites which can easily be found through an internet search engine or the link below. There are some MPs who do not have websites however and you may need to telephone or write to their constituency office to find out the time and place of the next surgery. Look in the phone book if you cannot find web-based information.

You will need to book an appointment.

It is advisable to be well prepared. You may find it helpful to take a copy of the letter you have already sent and a brief list of the main points you wish to raise. Be prepared to be specific about your case (or the case of the person you care for), what has or has not helped you, the help you still need and the changes that you want to see. The changes listed in our leaflet ‘Ten Steps to better control of Lyme disease,’ may be a helpful summary and you could take that with you.

If you have not already done so, during the visit it would be very helpful if you could make the following requests:

1. Ask your MP to write to the Secretary of State for Health to find out for you what is being done to address patient’s concerns about diagnosis and treatment of Lyme disease.
2. Please do not forget to request that your MP sign EDM 958.
   

Not all MPs will be immediately persuaded to your cause. Remember, if they do not know a lot about Lyme disease, it will be your opportunity to give them credible information and to be an advocate on your own behalf. A true story truthfully told is always persuasive.

When the meeting is over, do not forget to thank them for hearing your concerns.

Make a few notes about the meeting whilst it is still fresh in your mind.

Lyme Disease Action needs to hear your feedback about how our lobbying efforts are being received. Please send us your experiences using our feedback page.

Good Luck!


Link to search for your MP’s surgery through email or website:
http://www.parliament.uk/directories/hciolists/alms.cfm

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