Social Prescribing

What is Social Prescribing.

Social Prescribing is a way of supporting people’s health and wellbeing by connecting them with non-medical sources of support in their local community. It focuses on what matters to you, spending time together to explore activities and resources that can help improve your quality of life.

It gives GPs and other healthcare professionals additional referral options to support people through social, emotional, or practical needs—not just clinical ones.

How it Works

You can be referred by your GP or another healthcare professional, or you can self-refer.

Here’s what happens:

Our Social Prescribing Link Worker will meet with you to chat about your interests and needs.
Together, you’ll explore community-based options like exercise groups, gardening, art classes, volunteering, reading circles, and more.
You’ll start your chosen activity, with the Link Worker supporting you along the way.
After a few sessions, we’ll check in to see how things are going and whether you’d like to continue, try something else, or build further on your progress.

Who is it for?

Social Prescribing is for any adult (18+) who may be:

Feeling isolated or lonely
Experiencing stress, anxiety or low mood
Seeking new social connections
Wanting to explore new interests to support their mental and physical wellbeing

Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply ready to try something new, our Link Worker is here to help you find local opportunities that suit your lifestyle and personality.

Why It Works – Core Principles

Social Prescribing:

Takes a holistic approach, based on your needs and preferences
Recognises that health is shaped by social, economic, and environmental factors
Promotes wellbeing and helps reduce health inequalities
Works alongside medical care to remove barriers to engagement
Builds on community strengths and resources
Aims to empower you to take control of your health and life
(Public Health England, 2019)