JOY CONNECT
Social prescribing is a way GPs, nurses, link workers and other health and care professionals can refer people to a range of local services to meet their non-clinical needs.
The aim is to take a more holistic approach to a person’s health and wellbeing by focusing on what matters to them. Social prescribing is a key component of Universal Personalised Care, and its rollout is actively supported by the Long-Term Plan NHS England.
How it Works?
Social prescribing enables healthcare professionals and/or link workers to refer patients to community services. It’s a way patients without medical needs can get support whilst the healthcare professionals keep their own time free for patients with immediate health concerns.
To ensure no one falls through the cracks, link workers are increasingly being employed to bolster the resources in GP practices and throughout Primary Care Networks. A link worker holds a non-clinical role and provides support to those experiencing complex circumstances that could impact their overall wellbeing. After an initial assessment, a link worker will often refer a person to a community group that could be of benefit.
Most referrals are made to charities, which run activities to promote inclusion, reduce isolation, and improve physical and mental health. Some organisations can also offer helpful advice regarding legal matters, which clinicians are ill-equipped to provide.
Who is it for?
Social prescribing has been shown to be effective in supporting people with varying degrees of need. Whether accessing basic necessities like food and clothing, or complex legal support around debt or immigration matters, a robust social prescribing program can support everyone.
Those who could benefit most from these schemes include people who experience mental health concerns, people with additional needs, people with an inactive lifestyle and those who are isolated. During the peak of the pandemic, many Covid-specific programs were initiated to help those who were shielding remain as connected to others as possible.
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