Invitation materials

When we invite people to register their interest in participating it is crucial we remember the principle of inclusiveness.

Over the course of running hundreds of democratic lotteries, Sortition Foundation has developed invitation materials that are effective and accessible. Key points:

  1. Language should be accessible: the recipient may have a lower level of literacy, or be reading in their second language. Could a 9 year old understand this invitation?
  2. There is a clear “ask”: Will the recipient be able to clearly understand what they are being asked to do, and why?
  3. The ask should make sense, and be worthwhile, to the recipient: Why should the recipient contribute time and effort to this project?

Added to this, it is important that the recipient can be confident of receiving the support they need to participate. For a citizens’ assembly to be truly inclusive, there should be adequate remuneration for people’s time, support with travel, allowances made for disability, caring needs, language needs and so on.

Our typical (postal) invite pack has three primary components:

Envelope

Invitation envelope

The invitation comes in a specially designed envelope, encouraging people to open the invitation and see what’s inside.

Invite Card

Invitation card

The invitation contains a card with all the key details clearly displayed, including a QR code and URL if people want to register immediately.

Letter and FAQ

Invitation envelope

The invitation contains a letter and FAQ giving further details about what is involved. Language is clear and accessible.