One of the most important things you can do is write to your MP.
MPs need to know that constituents feel strongly on this issue and that their involvement will have public support.
1. This page has a template letter which you can copy and paste into an email.
2. You can find your MP’s email address here. Please cc info@anyoneschild.org so that we know which MPs have been contacted. And, remember to add a subject title.
3. Add your own thoughts on why the UK’s current approach to drugs isn’t working, we’ve provided a prompt for you in the template. A more personalised email has a much better chance of getting a response.
4. Include your name and home address in the email. It is parliamentary protocol that MPs respond to their constituents.
Alternatively, you can write to your MP via post by simply sending a letter to the following address:
House of Commons
London SW1A 0AA
[Your name and address here]
[Date]
[Your MP’s name] [Office address]
Dear [Your MP’s name],
Please meet me to discuss the impact our current drug laws are having on people in our community.
I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your name], and I am a constituent.
I am reaching out to request a meeting to discuss the effects that the current drug laws in the UK are having on our local community.
I am increasingly concerned about the adverse consequences of the UK’s prohibition-based approach to drug policy. I believe that effective drug policy should enhance public health, reduce crime, support international development, and, most importantly, safeguard young and vulnerable individuals. Unfortunately, there is compelling evidence indicating that our existing policy framework does not meet these objectives.
I am particularly concerned that people in our constituency are having their lives negatively impacted by current policy.
[Insert personal observation or experience regarding the current approach to drugs]
The compelling and harrowing stories shared by families who campaign with ‘Anyone’s Child: Families for Safer Drug Control’ highlight the negative effects of our current criminal justice-centered approach to drug issues and how it can impact young people, families, and communities throughout the UK.
These accounts have inspired me to advocate for meaningful change, and I urge you to read and listen to them: www.anyoneschild.org/stories.
These courageous families are uniting to push for reform of the Misuse of Drugs Act, aiming to prevent others from the avoidable suffering they have endured. By implementing a legally regulated system and getting drugs under control, we can redirect the trade away from organised crime and put doctors, pharmacists and licensed retailers in charge.
It is concerning that drug-related deaths in the UK have reached unprecedented levels, drugs are getting stronger and our prisons are at crisis point. According to the latest available figures, 4,936 fatalities were registered in the UK attributing to drug misuse, a statistic that we can all agree is unacceptable.
There is substantial evidence from other countries demonstrating that legal regulation is delivering better outcomes, saving lives and protecting communities. I am urging you, as my elected representative, to meet with me to discuss how we can collaboratively address this urgent issue and work towards a more effective approach to safeguarding the people within our community.
Yours sincerely,
[Your name] [Your email address]