Energy Champions
Supporting People Struggling with Energy Costs
Funded by UK Power Networks, this programme helps people facing high energy bills or cold homes by equipping trusted frontline workers with the tools to support them
Champions come from community organisations — not Citizens Advice — and include teachers, carers, support workers, and others already working with those at risk of fuel poverty.
With simple guidance and clear referral routes, Energy Champions help people get the right support, often from someone they already know.
An Energy Champion is someone who…
…works or volunteers in a role that regularly supports the public
…knows how to signpost or refer people to relevant support
…has attended a short, practical briefing session run by Citizens Advice Essex
…helps raise awareness about energy costs, rights, and solutions
…can spot the signs of fuel poverty and offer timely, appropriate help
You don’t need to be an energy expert — just someone who listens, cares, and is willing to connect people with the help they need.
Energy Champions FAQs
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Energy Champions come from all walks of life — what they have in common is regular contact with people who may be struggling.
You might be a Champion if you're a:
Teacher, teaching assistant or school pastoral lead
Health visitor, community nurse or social care worker
Food bank volunteer or community organiser
Housing support officer or tenancy advisor
Family hub or early years worker
Faith leader or church volunteer
Warm space coordinator or library worker
Befriender, carer or support group facilitator
Volunteer in a local charity or support service
Welfare or benefits adviser in a non-Citizens Advice setting
If you regularly listen, support, or guide others in your role — and want to help tackle fuel poverty where it’s most visible — you could be an Energy Champion.
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Champions are trained to recognise and support people who may be:
Choosing between heating and eating
Unable to afford top-ups for prepayment meters
Living in cold, damp, or poorly insulated homes
Unaware of help available for energy bills or home improvements
At greater risk due to age, illness, low income or poor housing
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As a Champion, you’ll be able to:
Identify people who may be struggling with their energy costs
Offer basic energy-saving advice
Signpost to schemes like the Warm Home Discount or Priority Services Register
Make referrals for specialist support with benefits, debt, housing or energy efficiency
Share trusted information using pre-approved materials
Help clients feel heard, supported and less alone in navigating fuel poverty
Most importantly, you'll play a role in preventing cold homes — and the health, financial and emotional hardship that often follows.
How to Become an Energy Champion
Becoming a Champion is simple. Just sign up for one of our short, free briefing sessions. These practical sessions will give you the confidence and knowledge to spot signs of fuel poverty and take action quickly and appropriately. If you’d like to be added to oour wiating list NOW then email
Once you’ve attended a session, you’ll:
Be recognised as an Energy Champion
Gain access to our private Champions Area with tools and resources
Join a regional network helping to reduce fuel poverty across Essex and beyond
Ongoing Support for Energy Champions
After attending a briefing, Champions also receive ongoing support from the Citizens Advice Essex team to help them stay informed and effective in their role.
As a Champion, you'll get:
Invitations to optional training sessions throughout the year on energy, benefits, fuel debt, and related topics
Access to downloadable materials like posters, referral guides, and digital flyers
Orderable printed leaflets and outreach tools you can use in your venue
A quarterly newsletter with updates, funding news, and case studies
Everything is designed to help you make energy advice a small but powerful part of your existing role — without extra burden.