The Heritage Link Worker project, known as "Heritage for Wellbeing," is breaking new ground in Great Yarmouth and Waveney by linking people with mental health challenges and social isolation to heritage-based wellbeing activities. Spearheaded by the Restoration Trust and funded by Historic England, the two-year pilot ran from November 2022 to May 2024, serving over 80 people facing issues like depression, anxiety, loneliness, and limited mobility.
The project aimed to bridge the gap between the heritage and healthcare sectors, which have historically been disconnected. “The heritage sector has been behind in contributing to social activities ‘on prescription,’” explained a project leader. By establishing a social prescribing pathway, the Heritage Link Worker project enabled GP practices, mental health teams, and social service organisations to refer individuals to heritage-based activities that promote mental and physical wellbeing.
Initially, the project faced challenges, as local heritage organisations struggled to meet demand. To address this, the Heritage Link Worker programme established ongoing “Heritage for Wellbeing Groups” in Great Yarmouth, Gorleston, and Lowestoft. These groups introduced participants to local history through hands-on experiences, from photography and art to archaeological digs and historical site visits. "Group members visited iconic places like the Great Yarmouth Winter Gardens, Norwich Castle, and even Sutton Hoo," noted a project organiser, highlighting the variety and depth of experiences offered.
The results were significant. Participants reported measurable improvements in mental health and a sense of connection. More than 60% of participants showed improved wellbeing scores, 26% reduced their reliance on health services, and 28% decreased their medication usage. The project also raised awareness about the benefits of heritage engagement within healthcare networks, leading to new referral pathways and a stronger relationship between heritage and health providers.
Reflecting on the success of Heritage for Wellbeing, the Restoration Trust plans to produce guidance on heritage and social prescribing, aiming to share the project’s insights with communities across the UK. The pilot's achievements have inspired the participant group to continue as a self-sustaining, voluntary-led community group, thanks to additional funding.
In June 2024, the Heritage for Wellbeing project was honoured with the "Best Heritage Social Prescribing Project" award at the International Social Prescribing Conference in London, cementing its place as a trailblazer in using heritage to support community health.
