Social Prescribing
A Social Prescriber, also called a Social Prescribing Link Worker, is a person who works alongside the clinical team in the GP surgery to help address non-medical needs. This will often start as a conversation to discuss what is important to you.
The social prescriber will discuss what support is available so that you have more control over your health and find ways to improve how you feel in a way that suits you.
Social prescribers work with a wide range of people including:
• Those with one or more long term-conditions
• Those who need support with their mental wellbeing
• Those who feel lonely or isolated
• Those with financial and housing issues
• Those who need practical support
• Those who want to improve their health
• Those who are looking for support and interest groups
• Those who need support with work, education and training
• Those who require a foodbank voucher
• Those who are carers or supporting others in some way.
How to refer:
You can ask to be referred to the Social Prescribing service by any member of the GP Surgery team, whether that be a receptionist, a nurse or a doctor. This can be requested in person, over the phone or by online triage. You will need to give a brief reason for the referral. You can find out more information in the Local Provider Information.
This is not a crisis or medical advice service. For out of hours mental health support, you can contact First response Team on 0800 923 9323 or Samaritans on 116 123 – both these services are available 24/7. In an emergency, please contact 999.