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Videos from Ergsy search
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Social prescribing in practice: supporting social prescribing link workers
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How can a Social Prescribing Link Worker help you? #MeetYourGPTeam
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Introducing Social Prescribing - short video
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Social Prescribing
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What is a social prescriber?
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Social Prescribing in Greater Manchester
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What is a social prescriber, and how do they support general practice?
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Social prescribing – what is it?
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Social Prescribing Link Workers are part of new health and wellbeing services in NHS surgeries
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Social prescribing in south east London
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Social Prescribing
More Videos of Interestdiagnosis
Social Prescribing – What is it?
Introduction to Social Prescribing
Social prescribing is an innovative approach in the healthcare system of the United Kingdom, designed to support individuals' health and well-being in a holistic manner. Rather than focusing solely on medical interventions, social prescribing connects patients with non-medical resources within their communities. This might include activities like joining a local walking group, participating in arts or crafts sessions, or getting involved in volunteering opportunities.
The Need for Social Prescribing
The traditional healthcare system primarily addresses physical ailments, but many health issues are rooted in social, emotional, and environmental factors. For instance, loneliness, stress, and lack of social support can significantly impact one's physical health. Social prescribing aims to address these factors by connecting individuals with community-based services that can improve their overall quality of life.
How Social Prescribing Works
Social prescribing typically involves healthcare professionals such as GPs, nurses, or social workers who refer patients to a "link worker" or "social prescriber." These link workers spend time with the patient to understand their needs, interests, and challenges. They then create a personalized plan to connect the patient with appropriate community resources and activities.
Benefits of Social Prescribing
Social prescribing offers numerous benefits for both individuals and the healthcare system. For patients, it can lead to improved mental health, increased physical activity, and a greater sense of community and belonging. For the healthcare system, it can reduce the burden on medical services by preventing conditions that arise from social issues and reducing frequent GP visits.
Examples of Social Prescribing Initiatives in the UK
Across the UK, various initiatives highlight the success of social prescribing. For example, "The Bromley by Bow Centre" in London provides a range of activities, from exercise classes to skills development workshops, for community members. Similarly, "Altogether Better" in Yorkshire supports individuals with long-term conditions by involving them in community-driven projects and peer support groups.
Conclusion
Social prescribing is an essential step towards a more holistic and integrated approach to healthcare in the United Kingdom. By considering the broader social determinants of health, this approach not only enhances individual well-being but also strengthens community ties and alleviates pressure on the healthcare system. As awareness grows, more communities are likely to adopt social prescribing, paving the way for healthier, more connected societies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is social prescribing?
Social prescribing is a means of enabling healthcare professionals to refer patients to a range of local, non-clinical services to support their health and wellbeing.
Who can benefit from social prescribing?
Anyone can benefit from social prescribing, particularly people with complex needs who may be impacted by social, economic, or environmental factors.
What types of activities are involved in social prescribing?
Activities can include arts and creativity, group learning, gardening, cooking, physical activities, volunteering, and befriending.
How do I get referred for social prescribing?
You can be referred by your GP, nurse, or other healthcare professional who may then connect you with a link worker or community navigator.
What is a link worker?
A link worker, also known as a community connector, helps you identify issues affecting your wellbeing and connects you to local services and activities.
Is social prescribing free?
Many social prescribing services are free, but some activities may have a cost involved. It’s best to check with your link worker.
Can social prescribing help with mental health issues?
Yes, social prescribing can be particularly beneficial for mental health by addressing social isolation, improving self-esteem, and reducing stress.
How does social prescribing relate to traditional healthcare?
Social prescribing complements traditional healthcare by addressing non-medical factors that influence health and wellbeing, offering a more holistic approach.
Are there any success stories of social prescribing?
Yes, many success stories demonstrate improved quality of life, reduced GP visits, and enhanced community engagement among participants.
Does social prescribing have evidence to support its effectiveness?
Research and pilot programs have shown positive outcomes, though continued evaluation and study are needed for broader evidence.
What should I expect during my first meeting with a link worker?
In the first meeting, a link worker will discuss your needs, interests, and goals to develop a personalized plan connecting you to appropriate services.
Can social prescribing services be tailored to individual needs?
Yes, social prescribing is highly personalized, focusing on the individual’s unique circumstances, preferences, and needs.
What role do community organizations play in social prescribing?
Community organizations provide the activities and services that form the basis of social prescribing, offering support and opportunities to improve wellbeing.
How is social prescribing funded?
Funding can come from the NHS, local government, charities, and other organizations dedicated to improving public health and wellbeing.
What should I do if there are no social prescribing services available in my area?
Speak with your healthcare provider or local health authority for information on available resources, and consider alternative support networks and community groups.
Useful Links
Useful links from: Strategies for Reducing Loneliness and Social Isolation in Urban Areas
- NHS - Loneliness in older people The NHS provides information on how loneliness can affect older people and offers strategies and advice on reducing social isolation, including physical activity and community engagement.
- Age UK - Tackling Loneliness Age UK offers resources and support for older individuals experiencing loneliness and social isolation. The website provides practical advice, volunteer opportunities, and connection services.
- Campaign to End Loneliness The Campaign to End Loneliness works to ensure that loneliness is acted upon as a public health priority. The site offers research, tools, and blogs on strategies to combat loneliness in communities.
- Mind - Loneliness Mind, a UK-based mental health charity, provides information on the impact of loneliness on mental health and offers advice on how to manage feelings of isolation through various coping strategies and support networks.
Useful links from: Social prescribing in practice: supporting social prescribing link workers
- NHS Social Prescribing This NHS page provides comprehensive information on social prescribing, including how it works, its benefits, and resources for link workers.
- Social Prescribing Network The Social Prescribing Network promotes best practices and offers resources for practitioners, including events, research findings, and a newsletter.
- Royal Voluntary Service - Social Prescribing Royal Voluntary Service provides information on their social prescribing services and how they support individuals in connecting with local activities and services.
- National Academy for Social Prescribing This organization offers extensive resources, training, and support for social prescribing link workers, including partnerships and funding opportunities.
Useful links from: Introducing Social Prescribing - short video
- NHS England - Social Prescribing An overview of social prescribing in the NHS, explaining how it works and its benefits to patients and community health.
- The King's Fund - What is social prescribing? Detailed information from The King's Fund about what social prescribing is, including research, case studies, and best practices.
- Social Prescribing Network A resource site for the Social Prescribing Network, which connects individuals and organizations involved in social prescribing across the UK.
- National Academy for Social Prescribing An organization dedicated to advancing social prescribing through research, collaboration, and sharing best practices across the UK.
Useful links from: Social Prescribing
- NHS - Social Prescribing Learn about social prescribing on the NHS website. This page explains what social prescribing is, how it works, and its benefits in supporting health and well-being.
- The King's Fund - Social Prescribing Explore detailed insights and research on social prescribing from The King's Fund, an independent charity working to improve health and care in England.
- National Academy for Social Prescribing Visit the National Academy for Social Prescribing to find resources, news, and information on social prescribing initiatives across the UK.
- Mind - Social Prescribing Mind, a UK-based mental health charity, provides valuable information about social prescribing, its benefits, and how it can help improve mental health and well-being.
Useful links from: What is a social prescriber?
- NHS - Social Prescribing This page on the NHS website provides an overview of social prescribing, explaining what it is, how it works, and the benefits it can bring to individuals and communities.
- National Academy for Social Prescribing The National Academy for Social Prescribing supports the advancement of social prescribing through various initiatives, resources, and partnerships across the UK.
- Mind - Social Prescribing Mind, the UK mental health charity, provides information on social prescribing, how it can help mental health, and offers resources for those looking to get involved.
- The King's Fund - Social Prescribing The King’s Fund is a health and care charity that provides insights and research on social prescribing, including its impact, potential challenges, and future development in the UK's healthcare system.
Useful links from: Social Prescribing in Greater Manchester
- NHS Social Prescribing Information on social prescribing from the NHS England website, including how it works and its benefits.
- Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Partnership Details about social prescribing initiatives and support in Greater Manchester, provided by the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Partnership.
- RHS Bridgewater Social Prescribing Information about social prescribing initiatives at RHS Garden Bridgewater, including activities focused on improving mental health and wellbeing through gardening.
- The King's Fund - Social Prescribing An overview of social prescribing from The King's Fund, providing research, policy analysis, and case studies.
Useful links from: What is a social prescriber, and how do they support general practice?
- NHS - Social Prescribing This page on the NHS website explains what social prescribing is and how it links patients to non-medical support in the community. It also describes the benefits for general practice and patient outcomes.
- National Academy for Social Prescribing The National Academy for Social Prescribing provides detailed information on what social prescribing is, how it works, and the impact it has on communities and general practices in the UK.
- Royal College of General Practitioners - Social Prescribing This page by the Royal College of General Practitioners outlines how social prescribing can support general practice, improve patient care, and addresses frequently asked questions.
- The King's Fund - What is Social Prescribing? The King's Fund provides an overview of social prescribing, its role in the healthcare system, how it supports general practitioners, and its impact on patients' mental and physical health.
Useful links from: Social Prescribing Link Workers are part of new health and wellbeing services in NHS surgeries
- NHS England - Social Prescribing Information about social prescribing, how it works, and the benefits for patients and healthcare services on the NHS England website.
- National Academy for Social Prescribing Home of the National Academy for Social Prescribing, supporting the implementation and success of social prescribing across the UK.
- The King's Fund - Social Prescribing The King's Fund provides in-depth research and analysis on the effectiveness and implementation of social prescribing in healthcare.
- Social Prescribing Network A UK-wide network that brings together people and organizations involved in social prescribing to share knowledge and best practices.
Useful links from: Social Prescribing
- NHS - Social prescribing and community-based support Official NHS page providing information on social prescribing, how it works, and its benefits. It offers resources and case studies on how social prescribing helps connect individuals to community support.
- The King's Fund - Social prescribing The King's Fund provides an overview of social prescribing, its advantages, and various models. It includes research, evidence, and policy analysis to support the implementation and scale-up of social prescribing.
- National Association of Link Workers This UK-based charity focuses on the concept of social prescribing link workers. The site provides training, support, and resources for social prescribing link workers who help patients to connect with community services.
- Social Prescribing Network The Social Prescribing Network offers networking and support for professionals involved in social prescribing. It provides resources, events, and best practices to improve and expand social prescribing services across the UK.
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- Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on Captions, click settings .
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