Social Prescribing

Social prescribing is a service that can help patients with social, emotional or practical needs to improve their health and wellbeing. We have a social prescriber who works with us one day a week.

Following a referral, they will call a patient first to introduce themselves and talk about what they do. They will then arrange a meeting, either in person or on the phone, where they will spend time getting an understanding of what they are concerned about. This will inform suggestions about a range of services and groups that could help and which they can support people to connect with, such as:

• interest groups, befriending and social activities
• housing, welfare benefits, financial support and advice
• employment, training and volunteering
• healthy lifestyle advice and physical activity.

They also help Brighton and Hove residents aged 18+, who are:

• feeling isolated and would like to socialise and meet new people
• struggling with benefits, housing or debt issues
• wanting support with mild depression, anxiety or stress
• wanting to volunteer or to return to work
• looking for support with mild learning disabilities
• caring for someone and would like some advice or support
• wanting support with healthy eating and physical activity.

Social Prescribers typically work with a person for 3 to 6 sessions, over 6 to 8 weeks, and are also able to work with people who are housebound. If you feel this service would be of help and you would like to connect with our social prescriber, please contact the surgery who can set up the referral.