During the period before an election, churches and community organisations often organise election meetings (sometimes known as hustings) where members of the public can listen to and ask questions of the candidates who are standing for election.

They do this as a public service, to support the democratic process, to facilitate public debate and as a contribution to the common good. This opportunity for respectful discussion in a neutral space is often appreciated by candidates as well as voters.

Below you can download guidance to help your church organise safe and successful hustings events which comply with the law. It includes both on and off-line hustings formats.

The guidance is in four sections:

1. Getting started
2. Different formats of election meetings
3. The rules around holding a hustings event
4. Practical planning

Useful Links

Churches Together Website

Joint Public Issues Team