Sample Letter for a Secondhand Smoke Survey
This sample letter can be adapted for various audiences and research purposes. Remember to replace the bracketed information with specifics relevant to your survey.
Option 1: Formal Letter to Participants
[Your Name/Organization Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Participant Name] [Participant Address]
Dear [Participant Name],
We are conducting a research study on the effects of secondhand smoke exposure in [Location/Community]. Your participation is crucial to understanding the prevalence and impact of this public health issue.
This survey aims to collect data on your exposure to secondhand smoke, its effects on your health, and your opinions on related policies. The survey is completely anonymous and confidential. Your responses will be aggregated with others, and no individual data will be identifiable in the final report. Participation is entirely voluntary, and you may withdraw at any time without penalty.
The survey should take approximately [Time Estimate] to complete and can be accessed online at [Survey Link]. A printed copy can be provided upon request by contacting us at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].
Your insights will significantly contribute to informing public health initiatives and promoting healthier environments for everyone. Thank you for considering participation in this important study.
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Organization Name]
Option 2: More Casual Letter for a Community Survey
[Your Name/Organization Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
[Date]
Dear Neighbor,
We're reaching out to you today to ask for your help in improving our community's health. We're conducting a short survey about secondhand smoke exposure in [Neighborhood Name].
Secondhand smoke affects everyone, and understanding its impact here is vital. Your honest answers will help us identify areas for improvement and create a healthier environment for all.
The survey is quick, anonymous, and confidential – it takes about [Time Estimate] to complete. You can access it online at [Survey Link] or ask for a paper copy by calling [Phone Number] or emailing [Email Address].
Your participation makes a real difference! Thank you for helping to build a healthier community.
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Organization Name]
Option 3: Letter to a Specific Group (e.g., Parents)
[Your Name/Organization Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
[Date]
Dear Parent/Guardian,
We are conducting a study to better understand the impact of secondhand smoke on children in [School/Area]. As a parent/guardian, your perspective is especially valuable to this research.
This survey asks about your child's exposure to secondhand smoke and its potential effects. All responses are confidential and anonymous. Your participation will help us create safer and healthier environments for our children.
The survey can be accessed online at [Survey Link]. It takes approximately [Time Estimate] to complete. Please contact us at [Phone Number] or [Email Address] if you prefer a paper copy or have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Organization Name]
Remember to include:
- Informed Consent: Clearly state that participation is voluntary and anonymous (if applicable).
- Data Privacy: Explain how participant data will be protected and used.
- Contact Information: Provide ways for participants to ask questions or withdraw.
- Survey Access: Include a clear and easy-to-access link to the online survey or instructions for receiving a paper copy.
This is just a template; tailor it to your specific needs and target audience for maximum effectiveness. Consider seeking legal review before distributing any survey involving human subjects.
