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Social Prescribing

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Social Prescribing and community-based support is a key component of personalised care and is part of the NHS Long Term Plan.

Social Prescribing enables GP practices to refer patients to a range of services that offer support for social, emotional or practical needs. Through a link worker, social prescribing connects patients to community groups and services.

Social Prescribing is an all-age, whole population approach that works particularly well for people who:

  • Have one or more long-term conditions
  • Need support with low-level mental health issues
  • Are lonely or isolated
  • Have complex social needs which affect their wellbeing

Community Link Workers

Community Link Workers can support patients in the following circumstances:

  • Those who are lonely, isolated or vulnerable (Poor social support)
  • Those who require support around unemployment, benefits, housing and welfare.
  • Those who require support with accessing local services, groups or activities.
  • Those who have social needs which affect their wellbeing.
  • Those who frequently attend their doctor's surgery (primary care) or hospital (secondary care) for social support.
  • Those who would benefit from signposting to services for support with individual social needs.

Note: Community link workers are not an urgent mental health crisis support service. Patients who require immediate mental health support should be referred to an appropriate service,

PCN SERVICE

Working Together

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Bransholme Surgery

Bransholme Health Centre
Goodhart Road
Hull
HU7 4DW

Tel: 01482 336100

Southcoates Surgery

225 Newbridge Road
HULL
HU9 2LR

Tel: 01482 335560

Field View Surgery

840 Beverley Road
Hull
HU6 7HP

Tel: 01482 853270city health practice website

The Orchard Centre

210 Orchard Road
HULL
HU6 9BX

Tel: 01482 303850

Elliott Chappell Health Centre

215 Hessle Road
HULL
HU3 4BB

Tel: 01482 303840

St Ives Close
Wawne Road
Sutton upon Hull
HU7 4PT

Tel: 01482 826457

The Quays

2nd Floor
Wilberforce Health Centre
6-10 Story Street
HULL
HU1 3SA

Tel:01482 335335

Riverside Medical Centre

The Octagon
Walker Street
HULL
HU3 2RA

Tel: 01482 335335

East Park Practice

2nd Floor
Wilberforce Health Centre
6-10 Story Street
HULL
HU1 3SA

01482 335335

SOCIAL PRESCRIBING

> NHSE SOCIAL PRESCRIBING> NASP SOCIAL PRESCRIBING> NHSE FAQs

EXPLANATION

What is it?

 Social prescribing is an innovative approach within primary care that enables healthcare professionals to refer patients to a variety of local, non-clinical services.

Recognising that health is determined by a range of social, economic, and environmental factors, social prescribing seeks to address individuals' needs in a holistic way, improving their health and wellbeing through support in areas such as social activities, lifestyle changes, and community engagement.

How it Works

Social prescribing works by linking patients with a 'link worker' or social prescriber who takes the time to understand their needs and interests. These link workers then connect individuals to a range of services, from community groups and voluntary organisations to fitness activities, hobby groups, and financial advice services. The aim is to support individuals in taking control of their own health and wellbeing by engaging in activities that are meaningful to them.

Benefits 

The benefits of social prescribing are broad and varied, including improved mental health, reduced loneliness and isolation, increased physical activity, and enhanced engagement with the community.

It can also lead to a reduction in the use of NHS services, as individuals gain the tools and support they need to manage their own health more effectively.

Who it Helps

Social prescribing is designed to help anyone who could benefit from additional support with their mental health, wellbeing, or social isolation.

This includes people with long-term physical or mental health conditions, those who feel isolated or lonely, and individuals seeking support with lifestyle changes, such as weight management or quitting smoking.

Examples

Social prescribing activities can vary widely depending on local services and individual preferences. Examples include art classes, gardening clubs, sports teams, community cooking classes, volunteering opportunities, and support groups. These activities not only help improve physical and mental health but also provide opportunities for social interaction and community engagement.

Getting Started

Individuals interested in social prescribing can start by talking to their GP, nurse, or healthcare professional, who can refer them to a link worker. Alternatively, some areas may allow people to self-refer to a social prescribing service. Once connected with a link worker, individuals will receive personalised support to choose activities and services that match their interests and needs.

What is Social Prescribing?