Writing for the public sector

In the public sector, writing skills have all too often been
overlooked. But your organisation’s reputation depends on its written
output. And good writing saves time – and taxpayers’ money.
View course details
Relating to your reader
On this practical one-day course, Emphasis writing experts will show
you how to communicate with your readers in a way they understand –
whether it’s drafting a clearly structured report, composing a letter
that hits the right tone or creating a form that is easy to fill in.
Focusing on your skills
We’ll analyse a sample of your writing, so that we can identify
exactly what you need help with. As a result, you'll learn how to create
documents that flow rather than bamboozle, engage rather than
frustrate and get your message across. First time.
Call us on +44 (0)1273 732 888 or email us to find out more.
What you'll learn
Whatever your area of technical expertise, this one-day technical writing course will help you to:
- plan what you're going to say
- focus on your reader's needs (whether they are a colleague, private-sector supplier or member of the public) before you write
- use a structure that makes sense to the reader
- overcome any anger or anxiety a correspondent may be feeling, to make sure they take in what they need to
- choose an appropriate style for the reader
- make your writing more readable, including how to take account of varying literacy standards
- write confidently and clearly
- construct sound, clear sentences
- avoid jargon and waffle
- use punctuation properly, to help the reader
- minimise the chance of 'bite back'.
Download a PDF about this course, including a course outline.
What our clients say
'We’ve commissioned classes in the past that take a more broadbrush approach and for sure they’re (sometimes) cheaper, but for the most part they make little difference to performance. So where’s the benefit? We have nothing but praise for the Emphasis training and highly recommend it.'
- Liz Davenport, Devon Partnership NHS Trust
'The trainer was highly experienced and very professional, and tailored the courses to people’s needs.'
- Matthew Batchelor, Nuffield Trust
Call our friendly advisors now on +44 (0)1273 732 888 to discuss how we can help you improve your documents, or see more client case studies.
Confidential writing analysis and questionnaire

Our unique writing analysis will give you the confidence and focus you need to improve your writing efficiently and effectively. Because it focuses on no fewer than 15 specific business-writing skills, you'll discover your strengths as well as areas for improvement.
You'll also receive a questionnaire ahead of the day so you can let the trainer know exactly what you want to achieve. Taken together, these ensure that no delegate gets left behind and everyone benefits from training appropriate to their level.
We take your privacy seriously, so your results won't be shared with other delegates (unless you choose to do so yourself). And if you give us any sensitive documents to analyse, we will be happy to sign a non-disclosure agreement.
Expert trainers
All our trainers are experts in writing for business, with a background in industries where writing is the main focus. So they are well equipped to handle even the trickiest writing challenges that public sector professionals face.
Each must go through rigorous selection and training processes, and pass a six-stage series of tests, before we consider them qualified to work for you.
Find out more about our trainers.
Supporting you after the course
We provide a year's phone and email support after the course, so you can return to your desk confident you'll continue to get the help you need. You'll be able tackle your next document with peace of mind, knowing that whatever your query, you'll be within easy reach of the solution.
And we'll be happy to arrange further post-course analysis, training and coaching specific to your needs if you want it, to ensure you gain maximum long-term benefit.
For more information about how we can help you or your colleagues write better documents, talk to us on +44 (0)1273 732 888 or send us a message.
Sample writing courses
How to get your documents read first: planning, structure and using plain English
How to handle complaints and get the tone right with customer letters
Refresher session on all the basics you never learnt at school
Making sure your messages are read – and acted on
The secrets behind confident, compelling public speaking
Suitable for anyone who has to write persuasively to win business
Maximising your chances of getting your project off the ground
Communicating complex information concisely – without dumbing down
Does what it says on the tin
Ensuring your voice is heard by the right people in the right way
How to edit sensitively and manage multiple contributions
A must for producing concise, well-organised reports
Tips and techniques for writing news, features and press releases
How to write letters your company can be proud to sign off