There are currently long waiting lists for young people needing mental health support in the UK. This session shares the latest learning from research exploring how social prescribing could help young people aged 11-18 while they are waiting to access CAMHS, by connecting them to non-medical forms of community support such as skills development, peer support, befriending and social or cultural activities.
The session draws on cutting-edge research from a three-year study launched in 2022 by the Social Biobehavioural Research Group at University College London, funded by the Prudence Trust. Joined by members of the research team and link workers who shared their insights, including first hand experiences and examples of how social prescribing can work for young people.
The session includes:
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An introduction to the Wellbeing While Waiting (‘INSPYRE) project
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A summary of learning to date, including the development of social prescribing pathways and how these have been implemented
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Presentations to share examples of young people who have taken part in social prescribing and how this has worked in practice
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Reflections on what’s next for this field and a Q&A
Speakers
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Professor Daisy Fancourt and Dr Daniel Hayes,, Social Biobehavioural Research Group at University College London
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Research Assistant and Social Prescribers: Lou Sticpewich, Joanna Page and Joely Wright
