What is Social Prescribing?
We all know that various elements of our lifestyle can affect how healthy we feel. For instance, if we feel lonely or are having money issues it can lead to depression or other health problems.
People might go to their GP with those issues, who without social prescribing might have prescribed drugs, but instead they can refer them to a Social Prescribing Link Worker.
Social Prescribing Link Workers spend time with each patient, getting to know their life and understand the range of social, economic and environmental factors that are affecting them.
The Link Worker then works with the patient to develop a personalised plan and will work through that plan with the patient to help rectify the issues.
What kind of issues can Social Prescribing address?
- Learning to deal with physical/mental health, finances, care choices, housing and aids/adaptions
- Learning how to get access to the support you need
- Meeting people and get involved in the activities you enjoy
Alliance Homes and Social Prescribing
Alliance Homes employs Link Workers who work in conjunction with local organisations to provide assistance in Weston-super-Mare. Alliance provides social prescribing services in partnership with Citizens Advice North Somerset. Our services are funded by Pier Health Group.
How do you access the service?
First you'll need a referral, you can get a referral in a number of ways:
If you're a patient with Pier Health, contact them - Pier Health is a group of GP practices in and around Weston-super-Mare. If you're registered with one of their surgeries, your Dr or any medical professional there can help with a referral.