Social prescribing involves connecting people to actives, groups and support that improves their wellbeing outside of their medical needs/healthcare. We are here to listen to what our patients need most, support them to set achievable goals, and find the services that can offer the best advice and care.
Social prescribing can look different to each patient. For some it might be help to find support around debt, for others it may be they would like to reconnect with others in a community group. Our team help people with a range of issues including loneliness, debt, stress, relationship issues, and housing concerns, giving them time and space and helping them find the best support service for their needs.
Social prescribing can help change the circumstances that can make people unwell. It can empower people to manage existing health problems, to get the right benefits or get back into employment. It can help people to connect and to grow in confidence.
All GP practices in Newcastle host a social prescriber who support patients with any of the following (and plenty more):
At NGPS, we support people over 18 with issues such as:
- Housing
- Finances
- Addiction
- Homelessness
- Domestic abuse/violence
- Emergency support for food/gas
- Application forms
- Relationships
- Loneliness
- Isolation
- Bereavement
- Work place stress
- Personal care at home
- Mobility/aids/home adaptations
- Caring responsibility
We also have a team dedicated to helping support Refugee and Asylum Seeker patients who have not been granted their right to remain status yet. Our RAS Link Workers are working into the currently temporary hotel accommodation sites to provide social and practical support to this patient group, helping them to better access healthcare and integrate into the community.
How to get an appointment with a social prescriber
Patients can ask at their GP practice reception for the support of a social prescriber; they do not need to see a GP first. Many of our GP practices have a self-referral form.
Several external organisations refer into our service, including the DWP, Adult Social Care (Newcastle City Council), NuTH and other secondary care services, the Salvation Army and Ways to Wellness. Professionals who think social prescribing is appropriate for patient support can refer patients to us and do this through a referral form.
social prescribing clubs and groups
Our social prescribers run a wide range of clubs and groups across Newcastle, including:
- Mindfulness sessions
- Arts, music and craft groups
- Gardening – some practices have their own allotment
- Table tennis
- Healthy eating
- Community mental health groups
Get in touch with your GP practice to find out about social prescribing activities near you.
