What is social prescribing?

Social prescribing is a person centred approach to health and wellbeing that recognises the impact of social, emotional and practical needs on physical health. Rather than relying solely on medical treatments, social prescribing connects people with community services and activities that can improve their overall quality of life. This matters because factors such as loneliness, financial stress or a lack of purpose can make existing health conditions worse and even contribute to new ones. By addressing these wider determinants of health, social prescribing offers a holistic way to support individuals beyond the walls of a clinic or surgery.

What is social prescribing?
At its core, social prescribing enables healthcare professionals to refer patients to non‑clinical services that promote better health. These services are often delivered by voluntary organisations, community groups or local councils. Examples include art classes, gardening clubs, walking groups or help with debt advice. Rather than prescribing a medication, a GP or nurse may prescribe participation in a community choir or a buddy scheme for isolated older adults. The intent is to tap into local resources so that individuals can build social connections, learn new skills and gain practical support for challenges that may affect their health.

How does social prescribing work?
The social prescribing process typically begins when a healthcare professional identifies a person’s non‑medical needs during a consultation. If a person reports feelings of loneliness, stress, or difficulty managing daily life, the clinician can offer a referral to a link worker. The link worker meets with the person to explore interests, needs and goals. Together they co produce a personalised plan that might include attending a local exercise group, accessing legal advice or joining a peer support network. Follow up appointments ensure that the plan remains relevant and can be adjusted as circumstances change.

Who are link workers?
Link workers are trained professionals who bridge the gap between clinical care and community support. They listen to each person’s story, identify strengths and priorities, and co create a flexible plan of activities and services. Unlike typical medical appointments, sessions with a link worker are unhurried and centred on building trust. Link workers have knowledge of local organisations and resources, enabling them to make tailored recommendations. They may also help people overcome barriers such as transport difficulties or anxiety about joining new groups, offering support until the person feels confident.

Types of activities and community services
Social prescribing spans a vast range of options designed to meet diverse needs. Creative activities include art, music or drama workshops, which foster self expression and reduce stress. Physical activities such as walking groups, yoga or dance classes promote fitness and social interaction. Practical support might involve help with housing issues, debt counselling or employment advice. Others find value in nature based interventions, for example gardening clubs or conservation volunteering, which combine gentle exercise with the therapeutic benefits of green space. Peer support groups enable people with similar experiences to share coping strategies and mutual encouragement.

Benefits of social prescribing
Engaging in social prescribing can lead to improved mental health by alleviating anxiety, depression and loneliness. Participating in meaningful activities boosts self esteem and gives a sense of purpose. For physical health, gentle group exercise can help manage conditions such as hypertension and arthritis, while dietary workshops support healthier eating habits. Social connections formed through community groups reduce stress hormones and strengthen resilience. At a system level, social prescribing can ease pressure on primary care by reducing repeat consultations for issues rooted in social factors rather than medical pathology.

Who can benefit from social prescribing?
Social prescribing is suitable for a wide range of people. Those dealing with long term health conditions, such as diabetes or chronic pain, often gain from peer support and lifestyle activities. Individuals experiencing mental health challenges can find therapeutic value in creative or nature‑based groups. Older adults at risk of isolation benefit from companionship and practical assistance. Even younger people facing unemployment or housing insecurity may find that legal advice and skills training improve their wellbeing. The key criterion is that a person has identified non‑medical needs that influence their health and quality of life.

Evidence and outcomes for social prescribing
Research into social prescribing shows promising results for mental health, wellbeing and social connectedness. Studies have recorded reductions in loneliness scores, improvements in mood and declines in anxiety symptoms. Some pilots report fewer visits to GPs and emergency departments, suggesting that addressing social factors can prevent crises and ease demand on services. Evaluations emphasise the importance of a well‑resourced community sector and strong collaboration between primary care and voluntary organisations. While more large‑scale trials are needed, the existing evidence base supports social prescribing as a cost effective and compassionate complement to traditional healthcare.

How to access social prescribing in the UK
In England, social prescribing link workers are increasingly embedded in GP practices and Integrated Care Systems. If you feel that social factors are affecting your health, mention this to your GP, practice nurse or pharmacist. They can refer you directly to a link worker or advise you on local community connectors. In Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland similar initiatives are underway, often led by health boards in partnership with local charities. Some regions also offer self referral options via community organisations or NHS websites. If you are unsure where to start, your practice receptionist or patient liaison service can point you towards the appropriate contact.

Funding and integration
Social prescribing is funded through a mix of NHS budgets, local authority grants and contributions from third sector partners. The NHS long term plan commits to expanding the number of link workers and strengthening community resources across England. Successful integration relies on clear referral pathways, shared record systems and regular communication between healthcare professionals and community providers. Local authorities play a vital role by mapping available services and incentivising innovative projects that address emerging social health needs.

Common myths and misconceptions
A common myth is that social prescribing replaces medical treatment. In fact, it works alongside clinical interventions, offering additional support rather than a substitute for necessary medications or therapies. Another misconception is that social prescribing is only for older adults. In reality it serves all age groups and life stages. Some worry that community activities lack professionalism, but most groups are well organised, with risk assessments and trained facilitators. Finally, people sometimes assume social prescribing is only about exercise. While physical activity is important, the full scope includes creative, practical and emotional support tailored to each individual.

Emotional and mental health impact
For many people, being referred to a community activity for the first time can be daunting. Social anxiety may make it hard to attend a group meeting or call a helpline. Link workers recognise these challenges and offer encouragement, goal setting and small step approaches to build confidence. Over time, the sense of belonging and shared experience nurtures emotional wellbeing. Participants often report feeling heard, valued and more in control of their lives. These positive feelings spill over into improved sleep, reduced stress and a greater capacity to cope with setbacks.

Summary
Social prescribing is a compassionate, evidence based approach that connects people to community activities and services addressing the social determinants of health. By working with link workers to co produce personalised plans, individuals gain access to creative, practical and supportive resources that enhance mental and physical wellbeing. This model complements medical care, reduces isolation and builds resilience. If social factors are impacting your health, ask your GP or practice team about social prescribing and discover how local community links can empower you to live a healthier, more fulfilling life.