Social Prescribing

Social prescribing link workers take a holistic approach to wellbeing, meeting patients in their home and community and giving them time to focus on what matters most to them. Anyone who may be in need of additional services to manage their wellbeing can access the service, most frequently we see patients who are having difficulty with low level mental health, physical health, housing, finances and social isolation.

Social prescribers use motivational interviewing techniques to enable patients to discover what matters most to them, coproducing a support plan for change and linking them to statutory and voluntary sector services to help make this change happen. This includes direct support to attend and engage with activities or services.

Patients are seen as often and for as long as needed to meet their goals (which do develop with time). This can range from weekly (or more frequent) contact to bi-monthly at different stages of their plan. Social Prescribers work with an average caseload of 60 patients.

In addition to supporting patients directly, social prescribers work with the local community to identify gaps in support and enable the community to come together to develop and provide services that members of their community need.

Self-referral is encouraged and referrals are taken from any community, statutory or public organisation – although the majority of referrals do come from GP practices. Our referral form can be accessed below or just call our social prescribing team on 01773 512076.

Social prescribing Referral form – GP practice

Social Prescribing Leaflet