This is an extremely sensible approach to obtaining information to add to your coursework research, but there are a number of simple guidelines that you should bear in mind.

Answering letters is expensive, especially for charities and they receive thousands of requests each year. There are a number of costs involved in answering the questions:

• Postage

• Photocopying

• Clerical time in organising the information

Most charities and organisations are very kindly to students, but it is far easier for them to file your letter ‘B’ for bin than to answer it.

Here are the rules to help make sure that you do get an answer.

• Make it extremely clear what information you need

• Send a self-addressed envelope, especially to a charity which is likely to be short of cash.

• Make sure that your letter is set out correctly with your name and address clearly marked.

• Write a pleasant and sensible letter

The format of a letter requesting information.

Your address in full
Your postcode
Your telephone number

The date

The name of the person who runs the organisation
The job description of the person
The address of the organisation

Dear (name of person)

I am currently carrying out a small research project in (your topic) as part of my (examination level) Sociology coursework.

(Say something to flatter the organisation) As one of the leading charities/organisations in the field of (whatever it is), you may be able to help me with my study.

I would be grateful if you have information on:

(Be really precise about what you want)

I enclose a self-addressed envelope for your reply.

Thank you for your time

Yours sincerely

(Your name)

General pointers:

Fancy signatures are insulting/irritating so if you have one, write your name clearly next to your signature.