We're celebrating Link Workers Day
For Link Workers Day (May 24) we will be celebrating and raising awareness of the fantastic role that Social Prescribing Link Workers – sometimes known as social prescribers or community connectors, are having on people and communities across Frimley Health and Care.
There are many things that affect our health that can’t be addressed by doctors or medicine alone. Like problems with money, housing, education or employment or perhaps feelings of loneliness or isolation.
Social prescribing link workers can help address these problems. They will take the time to understand what you are going through and help identify issues that could be affecting your health and wellbeing, setting goals that are personal to you. They will often meet you several times during your journey, although this will depend on your circumstances.
In addition they can connect you with local community activities and services that can improve your health and wellbeing.
Examples might include:
Helping someone who is isolated to join a befriending group, an art class or a community gardening project, based on what matters to them.
Connecting someone struggling with financial stress to a service that helps with managing debt or claiming benefits.
Working with someone with high blood pressure to take up a form of exercise that they’re comfortable with.
Social prescribing involves understanding the complexities of people’s lives. It can help change the circumstances that make people unwell and empower people to manage existing health problems. It can help people to connect and to grow in confidence.
Many GP practice teams now include Social Prescribing Link Workers and you can book an appointment directly, you don’t need to be referred by your GP.
Slough based Social Prescriber Nitasha told us:
“I work in partnership with patients and closely with local organisations, to give our patients the best chance of achieving their goals. I find it so rewarding being able to guide patients to make a positive difference to their overall wellbeing.”
Ascot based Social Prescriber Lucy added:
“As Social Prescribers, we have more time to speak with patients than a GP. Our appointments are half an hour which gives us plenty of time to chat and understand what a patient would like help with. It’s important that we offer individual support, so I meet patients over a few appointments to identify and set goals.
“As Social Prescribers, we have strong relationships with the GPs and other members of the practice team meaning if I’m worried about anyone I can raise my concerns and make a referral.
“It’s great when you get feedback. I have just heard from a gentleman who I have been helping to find alternative housing, something that is more suited to his current needs. I helped him fill out the housing application forms, I liaised on his behalf with his current landlord and the council and I have just found our he’s been offered a one bedroom flat in the area. I couldn’t be more delighted!”
If you feel you could benefit from speaking with a Social Prescribing Link Worker, contact your GP practice and request an appointment - you don’t need a GP referral to access this service.
Learn more about the roles you may have within your GP practice team at: fhac-archive.frimley.icb.nhs.uk/gethelp