Key insights about Social Prescribing

The robust ecosystem of support required for social prescribing

The success of social prescribing depends on the quality and stability of its support infrastructure, from a strong, reliable VCSE sector and trained Link Workers to secure funding for local groups, activities and services.

How social prescribing can reduce pressure on NHS services

With a strong understanding of local community needs, social prescribing can ease the burden on healthcare services, such as 28% fewer GP consultations and 24% fewer attendances at A&E.

The role of tech in social prescribing

Digital technology creates a wide range of opportunities for improving the delivery of social prescribing programmes, from increased cost-effectiveness to a superior client experience through automation and communication.

Supporting mental health concerns through social prescribing

Even though social prescribing is not a substitute for psychological support, it facilitates opportunities for other forms of local community care and enables additional support for socially-determined mental health concerns.

What makes a good Social Prescriber?

Link Workers are champions of social prescribing. Proactive and flexible, they empower people to take control of their wellbeing journey, offering continuous support and motivation along the way. But what exactly makes a good Social Prescriber?

Social prescribing - it’s not just for the older generation!

Youth social prescribing has the potential to address the unique support needs of young people. A link worker may offer a young person personalised care that may not otherwise be available.

Five key metrics to assess your social prescribing scheme

From wellbeing to service user satisfaction - these are the metrics that demonstrate the efficacy of social prescribing to help increase funding and convince policymakers.

Let’s make overprescribing a thing of the past

While quick prescriptions may only treat the symptoms of a condition, Social Prescribing Link Workers can offer patients the necessary time to identify and tackle root causes.

How social prescribing addresses the social determinants of health

Social prescribing complements medical care by offering an alternative form of support that emphasises social needs, such as increased community belonging and reduced feelings of loneliness.

Social prescribing and the strengths-based approach to care

A strengths-based approach moves away from what people cannot do. Instead, it embraces an individual's ambitions and targets wellbeing improvement by building on personal and community assets.