Members of Parliament are often targeted for action. Even if no action is taken, at least they have to reply to every letter received. If they are made aware of particular incidences, they can be very helpful Talking with journalists on local papers has often been useful. The only thing to be careful of is confidentiality, particularly concerning patients Lobbying Members of Parliament tends to be effective when a group of people are affected. Closing even a few beds in a local hospital may be devastating for the community.
Protests can achieve a great deal.
Making the time and action to be taken known beforehand to newspapers or journals may ensure that the national news media hear about it Using organisations such as trade unions and professional associations can be very helpful in disputes or disagreements. They can give practical and specific support and may take up a cause that is brought to them When unions and associations seem to lag behind, they may need to be challenged. If your association is not imaginative in such ways, ask them why not and what they intend to do about it Looking for sponsorship to visit relevant conferences, writing articles in relevant journals and waving banners and placards all help to make particular points and raise consciousness over issues that should concern more people Many of these ideas involve much talking in small groups and footwork among colleagues. However, this is necessary for any change to happen. It also helps to formulate ideas and clarify issues, possibly even averting blunders.