Does social prescribing work? Read the evidence

People from black, Asian and ethnically diverse population groups are currently under-represented in social prescribing. But there is very limited evidence to help us understand why. So, we need to build a better picture of awareness and engagement with social prescribing by people from these communities. And we need to better understand the barriers to their engagement in the service.  

Social prescribing can help people in crisis, and those with long-term conditions. The service also supports those in a caring role. It can address common mental health difficulties. These include, “loneliness, stress, mild to moderate depression, and anxiety”. This area requires further research, particularly for children and young people. But there is robust evidence to support the efficacy of social prescribing for mental health.