A couple receiving counselling or advice sitting on sofas

Advice and Information Social Prescribing

Finding Long-Term Solutions for Financial, Legal and Practical Problems  

In this section

With ongoing challenges around the cost of living, many people are living with debt, housing problems and money worries. There are systems set up to help, but these are not always easy to navigate. It can be difficult to know where to turn, which benefits to claim, and how to get support for the problems we face. 

When our lives feel out of control, mental and physical health can suffer. Many people turn to their GP. But doctors and the NHS cannot solve the root cause of every problem.  

We need practical help with financial and legal problems. We need to know how to access the right charities, helplines, and support services. We need meaningful, long-term solutions. 

NASP is working with the Money and Pensions Service and other partners to help more people take the first step. We believe this is integral to a healthy, happy life. And with the social prescribing, it is possible.  

If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. There is support out there. Making that first step is the hardest part, but once you talk to someone and you seek that support, the weight will lift, and you’re on a journey to better financial wellbeing. Be brave, take that first step, and talk about money.
Paul Rhodes, Partnership Coordination Manager, Money and Pensions Service

What Does Advice and Information Social Prescribing Involve? 

Social Prescribing Link Workers, and other similar roles, can connect people to advice, information and to people who can help. It’s a personalised service that can really make a difference.  

Support comes in many forms: 

  • Help getting the correct benefits  
  • Practical advice related to housing  
  • Legal advice
  • Information about support services for your specific needs. For example, if you’re a carer or living with a long-term health condition 
  • Help with debt. Guidance around money. And help building a better relationship with money 
Play Video: Financial wellbeing

Financial wellbeing

One of the great things about Social Prescribing Link Workers is that they really get to know the people they support. They understand their unique circumstances and challenges. And they “link” people with relevant advice and information services.  

Projects founded in the arts, culture, the natural environment, or physical activity can help too. Some may offer direct support. For instance, they may tackle holiday hunger by providing a hot lunch alongside play activities for children. Others may signpost people to advice and information. 

If someone has financial difficulties, it’s very likely they are suffering certain levels of anxiety, low self-esteem, frustration, fear… They can have panic attacks and develop depression. Another thing we’ve observed is that people who have been recently diagnosed with a long-term health condition need financial support. Usually, they’re not aware which benefits they’re eligible for, because they’ never needed to think about it before.
Hanan Paganini, Financial Support Link Worker

What is the Evidence for Advice and Information Social Prescribing? 

When people get help with financial, legal and welfare issues: 

  • Financial health, debt management and housing standards can improve. This may help some people to avoid homelessness. Credit-card use may decrease 
  • In young people, employment, education/training can improve There’s more access to healthcare and better engagement with social services 
  • Benefits are less likely to be stopped 
  • Poor health has less of a financial impact 
  • The advice can help address health inequalities. And it can increase the scale and consistency of household income. For instance, backdated payments for unclaimed benefits can boost income 
  • Physical and mental health can improve. People are more likely to take part in activities and maintain social connections. And to access paid-for health services such as dentistry and eye-care 

What’s more, advice and information social prescribing can be targeted to specific groups. For instance, people with substance addiction. Services can significantly reduce drug, alcohol, and substance misuse. They provide better access to primary care, mental health services, and community drug and alcohol services.  

This support helps boost confidence, knowledge, and empowerment. And it spurs people to continue in a positive direction.  

Visit our evidence page to find out more

How Can I Find Out More, Get Involved, or Get Help?

If you’re a local voluntary, community, faith, or social enterprise organisation… 

If your organisation is delivering social prescribing activities related to arts, culture, natural environment, or physical activity, you can still help people with practical problems. And you can learn to point them towards the right support. Sign up to Thriving Communities in your region or visit your regional page to find out more. 

You can also explore our Accelerating Innovation directory. Here you can find out about the advice and support offered by national organisations. 

Thriving Communities

If you need support for yourself or a loved one… 

The link worker at your local GP surgery will listen to your concerns and connect you with organisations that can help. You can also visit the Money and Pensions Service website. There, you can chat live, find a wealth of information, and use the money helper tools.

Money and Pensions Service

If you're a link worker 

Look out for our Financial Wellbeing toolkit, coming soon…  

If you’re looking for more online information, resources, and evidence… 

Menu
opens in new window