Five reasons why politicians want to engage with not-for-profits
I know it can feel like a frustrating exercise of arm-twisting to get some air time with a politician, especially if you’ve felt fobbed off many times before by excuses of diary pressures, parliamentary demands and the like.
I’ve spent many hours sifting invitations for politicians and giving recommendations on which ones they should accept, and there’s genuinely just not enough hours in the day to accept them all.
The good news for charities and other social purpose organisations is that there are many reasons why politicians will be keen to meet you – amid the sea of requests from businesses, trade bodies and every other sort of organisation under the sun.
Here are 5 reasons:
You want to make the world a better place.
So do the vast majority of politicians, be they Westminster MPs, local councillors or regional mayors. If you’re seeking to improve the lives of others you will often find a sympathetic ear. Among all the meetings they have, conversations with purpose-driven organisations can be some of the most energising and inspiring.
You work where they don’t.
Politicians can only be in one place at a time and they don’t see what you see on a daily basis. This means you have knowledge and experience that they don’t have, and they’ll want you to share it.
You have evidence and data they need to target what matters.
Politicians are in the business of shaping legislation, improving policy and raising issues. To be most effective at their job, they need to see the evidence supporting different courses of action, including the impact on different demographics and value for money.
You work on issues that others care about too.
From climate change to mental health, politicians know that the issues you want to talk about affect many others too, including those they have a duty to represent. You can help them understand their constituents’ needs better.
You can help them achieve the change they want to see.
Politicians get involved in politics to make a difference. Often the way change happens is through working together with organisations and campaigners who have expertise, reach and credibility. This is democracy working at its best.
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