Social Prescribing enables GP practices to refer patients to a range of services that offer support for social, emotional or practical needs. Through a Community Link Worker, social prescribing connects patients to community groups and services.
Community Link WorkersCommunity Link Workers are non clinical professionals based within your GP practice as part of the Be Well service. They provide personalised, non medical support to help people improve their health and wellbeing. Their role is very similar to Social Prescribing Link Workers. Social prescribing is a key part of the NHS Long Term Plan and supports people by focusing on “What matters to me?” rather than solely on clinical needs.
Community Link Workers give people time, listen to their concerns, and work together to create a personalised care and support plan. Their aim is to empower individuals to take control of their wellbeing and feel more connected, informed, and supported.
Who can access support?
Community Link Workers can support people who:
• Feel lonely, isolated, or vulnerable
• Need help with unemployment, benefits, housing or welfare
• Want support to access local groups, activities, or services
• Have social needs that affect their wellbeing (e.g. carers)
• Frequently attend primary or secondary care for non-medical or social concerns
• Would benefit from signposting or referrals to local services for social, practical or emotional support
Please note:
Community Link Workers are not:
• A weight management service
• A mental health crisis support service
If you need immediate mental health support
• Mental Health Crisis Intervention Team (18–64): 0800 138 0990
• Crisis & Intervention Team for Older People (65+): 0800 138 099
If you are in crisis or feel at risk of harm:
• Call NHS 111 or 999
• You may also call your GP practice (an emergency number will be available out of hours)
• You can contact the Samaritans any time on 116 123
Referral Criteria
To access the Community Link Worker service, you must:
• Aged 18 or over
• Registered with a Venn PCN GP practice
How to refer
You can refer yourself using the self-referral form below, or by contacting the Be Well Admin team on 01482 458091.
A clinician from your GP practice can also refer you directly.
What happens after I am referred?
You will be contacted by telephone within two weeks of your referral.
If we are unable to reach you, we will send a letter asking you to get in touch.
During your initial conversation, a Community Link Worker will:
• Discuss why you have been referred
• Answer any questions
• Explore your needs and priorities
• Explain what support is available
Community Link Workers can refer or signpost you to services such as:
• Adult Social Care
• Carers Information & Support Service (CISS)
• Citizens Advice
• SmokeFree Hull
• RENEW
• NHS Talking Therapies
• Mental Health Wellbeing Coaches
• Local groups, classes, and community activities
• Many other services depending on your individual needs
What happens if I choose to accept support?
You will be invited to attend a 60 minute initial assessment, either:
• Face to face at your GP practice, or
• By telephone
During your assessment, we will discuss:
• What is currently affecting your health and wellbeing
• What support, referrals, or changes could help you
• What your goals are and how you want to move forward
You will then be offered regular follow up appointments - in person or by telephone—so we can review your progress and adjust your plan as needed.
PCN SERVICE
Working Together
Bransholme Surgery
Bransholme Health Centre
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HU7 4DW
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840 Beverley Road
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215 Hessle Road
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Riverside Medical Centre
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East Park Practice
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SOCIAL PRESCRIBING
> NHSE SOCIAL PRESCRIBING> NASP SOCIAL PRESCRIBING> NHSE FAQs
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
