A social prescribing link worker helps connect patients to community resources and non-clinical support services to address non-medical issues impacting their wellbeing, such as:
- Loneliness
- Mental health
- Finances
- Housing
They empower patients to take control of their health and make positive lifestyle changes.
Services offered:
- Coping with chronic conditions
- Mental health and emotional support
- Relationship / domestic abuse counselling
- Loneliness / social isolation
- Self-esteem and confidence building
- Housing and financial advice
- Caregiver support
- Bereavement counselling
- Health coaching (weight, nutrition, smoking, exercise)
- Benefits for patients and practices
- Addresses social determinants of health
- Reduces reliance on medications
- Decreases GP visits for non-medical issues
- Enhances overall patient wellbeing
Access
Patients 18+ can be referred by their GP if presenting with non-clinical needs impacting health.
Link workers meet referred patients, assess requirements, and connect them to relevant community services.