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How social prescribing can help
Linda was left isolated after losing her husband. Wendy, her Social Prescribing Link Worker, helped her join an amazing walking group with Healthier Fleetwood that has given her a sense of community and belonging.
She said: “This group has made a big difference not just to me, but to everybody... It’s changed my life.”
Evrill became isolated during the COVID-19 pandemic. After seeing her GP, she was referred to String of Hearts, a charity supporting people through music.
She said: “Coming out to this session – I think that’s better than medicine.”
Shiv struggled with addiction issues, before joining Outside Edge theatre company.
He said: “There are so many aspects of it that are just so good for your overall wellbeing.”
Hundreds of thousands of other people have got help through social prescribing – for loneliness, anxiety, depression and a range of physical health conditions.
How to get support through social prescribing
Most GP practices across England can put you in touch with a Social Prescribing Link Worker (sometimes called a Social Prescriber).
Link workers get to know you, help you understand the challenges you face, learn what matters to you, and help you make a plan for how to improve your health and wellbeing.
This could involve supporting you to take part in activities or groups in your community, or finding services that can help you tackle practical problems affecting your health.
In some areas, you can also find out about link workers through a local website or on the phone.
Finding activities and groups in your community
There are many things we can do to look after our own health and wellbeing, including being more active, getting creative, spending time in nature and connecting with other people.
Libraries, leisure centres, local charities, arts venues and religious institutions often run activities that you could get involved in, or have information about groups you could join. You can also look up local activities online or in your local newspaper.
If you’re concerned about trying something new, read some tips from Dr Radha Modgil.
Getting practical support
There are also a wide range of services offering practical support related to debt, welfare, legal issues and other challenges that may be affecting your health. Find out more.
Does social prescribing work?
Talking to someone, identifying problems and making a plan to change the circumstances that are affecting your health can make a real difference.
Many activities you might be ‘prescribed’ have a direct benefit for health and wellbeing, particularly if they involve exercise, art, creativity or nature. Connecting with people and feeling sense of belonging is also good for our health and wellbeing.
Hundreds of thousands of people have already benefited from social prescribing, and there is lots of evidence to show how it can change lives. It is particularly effective for people struggling with loneliness, mental health issues, long-term health conditions or complex social needs.
