Engage local leaders to share your vision
Alcohol cuts across so many issues – road safety, violence, public safety, mental health and suicide, workplace safety and productivity, cancer, etc.
Given this, a wide range of community leaders may be able to take leadership on alcohol harm. Think about church leaders, kaumatua and kuia, principals, local council representatives, local organisations, etc.
Before approaching them, it is good to be able to link the alcohol harm that you are concerned about with the evidence of what is required to reduce the harm. (Link to talking points, Explore)
Consider why they would be interested in reducing alcohol harm. What values do they stand for? You can start by attending community meetings, or reaching out through online forums or groups. Always remember, keep it positive and polite.
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Attend community meetings
Look out in your local paper, websites or online forums (e.g. Neighbourhood Watch) for any events that relate to alcohol issues or community safety. Attend a meeting or post a message. Let the organisers know of your concerns and gauge interest in getting together to discuss further.
Visit online community groups
Reach out through online forums such as community Facebook groups, Neighbourly, etc.
Organise an initial meeting
Sometimes a local meeting is an excellent way to get interested people together. These can be particularly useful if there has been an incident that concerns the community, and there is a wish to respond.
- TIP – Inviting a guest speaker can provide an added incentive for people to attend, and help to focus the meeting.
 MEETING PLANNING CHECKLIST
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Multiple ways of engagement at different levels
There are different levels that you can engage community leaders. Below is a list of activities that you could suggest the leader participate in:
- Sharing information and campaign materials on their social media
- Share their own stories on their digital platforms
- Endorse the Price Charter
- Join the campaign and connect with us
- Visit local MPs to talk about alcohol harm
- Write an op-ed in a local newspaper
- Bring the issue to the attention of other key influencers