North & South Gloucester Primary Care Network

(Incorporating The Alney Practice, Brockworth, Churchdown, Hucclecote & Longlevens Surgeries)

What is it?

Social Prescribing Link Workers (SPLWs) work with people to identify non-medical goals based on what matters to the person.

SPLWs work alongside health professionals and community partners to empower people to take responsibility for their health and wellbeing. They do this using a health coaching, or motivational interviewing, approach to identify what matters to the person, help identify and work towards achievable goals and engage with community assets and groups.

Who is it for?

Link Workers can work with people over 18 years old who have consented to the referral.

Who can refer?

Anyone within the GP Surgery. Referrals should be sent as a task with as much information about the referral as possible.

How does it work?

1. An individual is identified with a social or non-medical need.
2. With the patient’s consent, a referral is sent to the SPLW or Living Well team.
3. The SPLW contacts the patient to arrange their first consultation.
4. During the first consultation personal goals are identified.
5. Follow-up appointments are offered to work with the person to help them achieve their goals.
6. Once the goal is achieved, the patient is discharged from the service, but can be re-referred if needed.

SPLWs cannot support people…

• With severe ongoing mental health conditions (SPLWs can work collaboratively with services but not as primary support).
• Who have not consented to the referral or do not want to engage with the service.
• Who are being referred for clinical reasons.
• Who are at risk of erratic behaviour incidents or verbal or physical aggression.

What do I need to know?

Social Prescribing is not an urgent service. We aim to respond to a referral within 14 days.

Our Social Prescribing Link Workers

Emma Crofts

Rachel Hodges-Cox 

Volunteer

For more information about our volunteers, please visit our Health Champions page.