Social media starter pack
This starter pack provides ready-to-use examples and simple guidance to help RHEs communicate confidently on social media. You do not need to post every week: focus on quality, clarity and local relevance.
Before you post, think about:
- Who am I trying to reach? (Residents, landowners, partners?)
- What is the single key message?
- Is the language clear and jargon-free?
- Do I have a relevant photo or short video?
- Whether it is appropriate to include emojis and if so which ones?
- Which hashtags to include to help amplify the post’s reach
You don’t have to use every single social media platform. Choose the channel that best matches your audience and objective.
Post example 1 – Explaining the role (Facebook / LinkedIn)
Rural Housing Enablers work with local communities to help deliver affordable homes that meet local needs and support thriving villages.
In [area name], we work with local residents, landowners and partners to explore small-scale housing solutions shaped by the community.
If you’d like to find out more about how Rural Housing Enablers work, get in touch.
Post example 2 – Community benefit focus (Facebook)
Affordable housing isn’t necessarily about creating large developments. In rural areas, its usually small-scale schemes designed for people with a strong local connection.
This helps local families stay in their village while supporting schools, shops and community life.
We’re currently working with [village name] to understand local housing needs. More information will be coming soon.
Post example 3 – Promoting a drop-in event (Facebook / Instagram)
Have your say on housing in [village name].
We’re hosting a drop-in session on [date] at [location] to discuss local housing needs and explore possible next steps for meeting local need for affordable housing.
Nothing has been decided – this session is about listening and understanding what the community wants.
We’d love to see you there.
Post example 4 – Promoting a survey (Facebook / Parish page)
Local housing survey now open in [village name].
If you live, work or have close family in the area, your views matter. We want to get your thoughts about housing provision in [village name].
Complete the survey here: [link] Deadline: [date]
Your feedback will help shape future decisions.
Post example 5 – Project milestone (LinkedIn / Facebook)
A positive step forward for affordable housing in [village name].
Following engagement with the community and detailed discussions with partners, the proposed scheme for [number] affordable homes has reached [planning submission / approval stage].
We’re excited to be able to help provide comfortable and much-needed affordable home for families and local people in the community.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed so far.
Post example 6 – Homes completed (All platforms)
New affordable homes completed in [village name].
These [number] homes have been prioritised for people with a strong local connection, helping local families stay in the community.
A great example of partnership working between residents, landowners and housing providers.
Post example 7 – Addressing concerns (Facebook)
We often hear concerns that rural affordable housing leads to large-scale development.
In reality, these schemes are small, carefully designed and focused on meeting identified local need.
If you have questions about housing in [area], please get in touch – we’re here to provide clear information.
Post example 8 – Values and legacy
Landowners play a vital role in sustaining rural communities.
Sensitive, small-scale affordable housing can help meet local needs while protecting the character and long-term future of the village.
If you’re interested in exploring how land could support your community, feel free to connect.
Script example (under 45 seconds)
“Hi, I’m [name], the Rural Housing Enabler for [area]. We’re currently working with the community in [village name] to understand local housing needs.
Affordable housing in rural areas is usually small-scale and designed for people with a strong local connection.
If you’d like to share your views, join us at [event] or visit [link].”
Add subtitles and keep the tone friendly and conversational.
Engagement
Suggested posting frequency (realistic approach)
- During active consultation: 1–2 posts per week
- During quieter periods: 2–4 posts per month
- Major milestones: As needed
Consistency matters more than volume. Simple engagement tips
- Respond politely and promptly to comments
- Thank people for constructive feedback
- Avoid engaging in arguments online
- Use clear, calm language
Hashtag suggestions (Use sparingly)
#RuralHousing #[YourCountyName] #[VillageName] #AffordableHousing
Do not overload posts with hashtags – 2–4 is usually enough.
Social media is about visibility, clarity and trust. You do not need to be perfect or highly technical. Keep it local, keep it human and focus on the community impact.
Using emojis in social media
Emojis can help make social media posts feel more friendly, eye‑catching and accessible. Used well, they support your message rather than distract from it.
Emojis can draw attention as people scroll, break up text, add personality to messages and help convey the tone.
Good practice
- Use emojis sparingly – one to three per post is usually enough
- Place emojis at the start of bullet points or after key phrases
- Choose emojis that clearly relate to your message (e.g. homes, people, location)
- Use on more informal platforms, such as X, Instagram or Facebook, rather than LinkedIn – this can look a little unprofessional on the wrong platform
Example: 🏡 New affordable homes coming to the village – find out more and have your say.
Be careful with…
- Overusing emojis – too many can look confusing
- Emojis with unclear or multiple meanings
- Replacing important words with emojis (this can reduce accessibility)
- Using emojis in formal announcements or press releases - they’re best for social posts
Accessibility tips
- Screen readers read emojis out loud, so avoid long strings of them
- Don’t rely on emojis alone to convey meaning – always include text
- Simple, familiar emojis are clearer than niche or abstract ones
Emojis work best on posts that promote events or surveys, celebrate milestones or good news, relay community stories and work well on friendly reminders or calls to action.
Before posting, ask:
- Does this emoji support the message?
- Is it appropriate for the audience?