Want to get started running your own campaign? Well, you’ve come to the right place!
So, you’ve had an awesome idea for a campaign but have no idea what to do next? I’m here to help you get started! My name is Skye – I’m the Chief Campaign Officer for Kids Against Plastic, and I’ve already got my own campaign against plastic toys on magazines under my belt.
Here are my tips for how you can start your own campaign, just like I did – and if you want any more advice, drop me a line below
How to start a campaign
1: Write a letter
Who you write your letter to depends on your campaign. If your campaign is similar to mine (banning plastic toys on comics and magazines), write to the business you want to change: I wrote to the publishers, but you might write to a supermarket, big business, or someone else! Always send it high up, to the CEO (or equivalent) and other powerful emails.
2: Be patient!
Wait and see what the reply comes back like: if you’re lucky it will be a good reply, but you’ll most likely hear that they’re “trying really hard” or “we really care, but…”. Do NOT give up! It’s taken me a year to change one magazine – campaigns and changing things take time, lots of it!
3: Start a petition
If you got a rubbish reply to your letter, I recommend starting a petition – I found change.org really easy to use. Share your petition everywhere social media, and tell your friends and family! This leads on to step 4…
4: Spread the word
Write to people: your local newspapers, national newspapers, and environmental activists and naturalists like Cel Spellman, Greta Thunberg and David Attenborough. The more attention, the more support!
5: Say YES to everything
I wouldn’t be where I am if I didn’t say yes to Zoom calls and going on telly! If I didn’t say yes to going on Radio 4 early in my campaigning, I wouldn’t be where I am today! Even if it’s a bit scary, make the most of the opportunities that come your way.
6: Never give up!
Keep going! There are hard, lonely times when campaigning, but it’s totally worth it when you have a win!
Campaign successes
Get in touch
Want us to help you run your campaign, or have a campaign you’d like to see us run? Get in touch here:
Make sure to let us know what you’re looking for in your message: would you like support/advice from Skye, or would you like your campaign running for you?