Social Prescribers

If you have a problem that is not medical, social prescribing is a way of helping you to connect to support that will help you find ways to do something about it. Your GP can refer you to a social prescriber for a range of support services. The social prescriber will speak to you to understand what you feel may help, discuss available support and next steps. If you wish to proceed with the support, your social prescriber can refer you on to the service that can help.

Social prescribing can help if you:

• Have one or more long-term conditions
• need support with your mental health
• are lonely or isolated
• have complex social needs which affect your wellbeing.

Examples of support include:

• Befriending – someone to talk to
• Help to apply for benefits e.g. attendance allowance/PIP/ESA, reduction in council tax
• Social isolation – information on local social groups
• Mental health support services
• Support groups e.g. Parkinson’s/MS/Stroke etc.
• Housing advice and support
• Support with debt and money management
• Practical support e.g. shopping/cleaning/gardening
• Drug and alcohol support services