What is Social Prescribing?
Social prescribing is a way of connecting people with practical support, activities and services within their local community that can help improve their health and well being.
Many factors can affect our health, including loneliness, stress, housing concerns, financial pressures, physical inactivity, or a lack of social connection. Social prescribing recognises that health is influenced by more than medical care alone and helps people access support that meets their individual needs.
Social prescribing can help people find local groups, activities and services such as:
- Exercise and walking groups
- Community Gardening projects
- Volunteering opportunities
- Arts, crafts and creative activities
- Social groups and community events
- Benefits, debt or housing advice
- Healthy lifestyle and well being support
How does Social Prescribing work ?
At Orchard Medical Centre, our social prescribing service is provided by Southern Brooks Community Partnerships on behalf of our Primary Care Network.
A Social Prescribing Link Worker will take time to understand what matters most to you and work with you to identify local services, groups and activities that may support your health and well being. Together, you can develop a plan that is personalised to your needs and goals.
If you feel social prescribing may benefit you, please speak to a member of our team who can discuss whether a referral would be appropriate.
Benefits for Health and Well being
Social prescribing can support people to:
- Improve their mental well being and reduce stress
- Build confidence and self-esteem
- Reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation
- Develop new skills and interests
- Strengthen connections with their local community
- Access practical support for everyday challenges
- Improve overall quality of life and well being
Benefits for Environmental Health
Many social prescribing activities encourage people to connect with nature and their local environment. Examples include community gardening, conservation projects, outdoor volunteering, walking groups and other nature-based activities.
These activities can benefit environmental health by:
- Supporting local green spaces and biodiversity
- Encouraging active travel such as walking and cycling
- Helping people develop stronger connections with their local environment
- Promoting sustainable community activities
- Suporting healthier, greener communities for everyone
Research has shown that spending time in nature can have a positive effect on both physical and mental well being, while also encouraging people to value and care for the environment around them.
Find Out More
For more information about the social prescribing service provided by Southern Brooks, please contact the practice