Hey Elf, you’re a cute agent for a big social and economic issue
By Research and Campaigns Team
“Hey Elf, you’re just making a cup of tea for one there! Energy Saving Tip – avoid overfilling the kettle and you could save up to £13 a year.”
Our first social media post this month likely raised a few eyebrows. What was a little character with big ears and pointy hat doing in a Citizens Advice timeline?
Helping promote energy efficiency around the home is the simple answer.
But reason Elf is there is our ever-creative communications team. They spotted the potential for a CAEE Christmas campaign some time ago. Known to millions as ‘Elf on the Shelf’, the magical imp was perfect to front a daily reminder about saving energy.
With a post for each day in the run-up to Christmas, Elf has reminders about how to save energy and money all round the house.
Right now energy efficiency is very important for Citizens Advice. The cost-of-living crisis is affecting so many of our clients. Sky-high bills have raised energy supply and consumption to the top of the policy leader board where they belong.
Which is why putting Elf on the Shelf was a timely initiative. In 2023 we helped hundreds of local people with energy problems. Also, as part of our cost of living campaign, we’ve regularly called on policymakers to provide proper support for vulnerable and low-income families.
New! Energy Appointments
And we recently set up a new Energy Advice page. Anyone struggling to stay warm or pay their bill can contact us for a free energy advice appointment. Our advisers can help whatever the issue – cutting energy use, applying for grants and benefits, contacting a provider, switching provider, Warm Home Discount, crisis support, smart meter problems.
When it comes to energy saving everyone can do their bit and till Christmas at least the Elf is on the shelf to remind us how!
Follow us and Elf on Instagram @citizensadviceepsomewell and X/Twitter @CAEpsomEwell and please share our posts. It really does help to get our advice out there.