Social Prescribing

 

BACK TO MAIN INDEX

 

What is Social Prescribing?

Social prescribing is a national NHS England programme, and is a way for local agencies to refer people to a link worker. Link workers give people time, focusing on ‘what matters to me’ and taking a holistic approach to people’s health and wellbeing. They connect people to community groups and statutory services for practical and emotional support.

Social prescribing works for a wide range of people, including people:

  • with one or more long-term conditions
  • who need support with their mental health
  • who are lonely or isolated
  • who have complex social needs which affect their wellbeing.

Southern Brooks, in partnership with DHI, has been commissioned to deliver support within GP Practices in South Gloucestershire. Our Social Prescribing Link Workers are based within the Practice, and GPs can refer patients directly to them. Patients are offered 4-6 one-to-one appointments with their Link Worker, who will help them to access relevant services, support, and community groups.

NHS England has produced a summary guide to Social Prescribing, which you can read here.  

For more information, or to be referred to Declan Heaslewood who is the Link Worker for Almondsbury Surgery , please contact the surgery on 01454 613161.

 

Social Prescribing During Covid

The Social Prescribing Service is continuing to run remotely throughout the COVID-19 social distancing measures.

The link workers continue to be able to access, sign post and refer into the necessary services to improve people’s wellbeing.

Social Prescribing was designed to reduce levels of social isolation, and despite current restrictions we are continuing to do so. Social distancing measures do not mean that we have to be disconnected and the link workers are working with people that are struggling through this period.

We have been helping people struggling with their children during school closure, helping with money and welfare issues, including helping to secure grants for those in financial hardship,  and have gained support for mental health and well-being from a variety of organisations and community groups.

Now that restrictions are lifting, and the weather is bright, our link workers are meeting people out in their communities for face to face conversations in open spaces where social distancing measures can be followed safely.

We are busy building a portfolio of ‘green’ activities and community groups that can be joined and enjoyed while adhering to government advice.