Pressure Group Methods

Insider groups seek to influence government decisions directly. This may include:

• Accessing key decision makers, such as the Prime Minister, cabinet ministers and civil servants.
• Provide specialist information when the government is considering new laws, which allows the pressure group to influence the government’s decision.
• Targeting members of the House of Commons or House of Lords.

Outsider groups are not able to directly contact the government but can use the public and the media to affect government decisions, such as:

• Demonstrations and marches (Fridays for Future)
• Publicity stunts (Fathers for Justice)
• Social media
• Celebrities and statements
• Civil disobedience (refusal to obey certain laws).

Direct action refers to the public being actively involved in politics as opposed to using a representative or voting. Direct action can include:

• Demonstrations and marches
• Trade unions going on strike
• Sit-ins (Occupy London).