Social Prescribing is HSE-funded and hosted by Laois Partnership Company

The aim of Social Prescribing is to connect individuals back with community-based supports and initiatives through the support of a Social Prescribing Link Worker. Social Prescribing recognises that health is heavily determined by social factors such as poverty, isolation and loneliness. Social Prescribing can offer GPs and other health professionals a means of linking people back to a wide variety of non-clinical, community-based supports with the aim of improving health and wellbeing.

Social Prescribing is a free, non-judgmental and supportive service for those over 18, including (but not limited to) anyone:

• with one or more long-term conditions
• who needs support with mental health or social needs
• who is lonely or isolated
• who may frequently attend their GP or A&E and may benefit from non-clinical, social supports.

The aim of Social Prescribing is to improve health and wellbeing by supporting individuals to connect with their community, foster positive relationships through involvement in community-based groups and activities.

Referrals may come from a wide variety of sources including GPs, healthcare professionals, community-based agencies, families or even self-referrals.

What types of support are available?

Social Prescribing is a short-term intention that lasts for six to ten sessions on average. The Link Worker works in collaboration with the individual, designing a personal action plan and supporting the service user to achieve the same. Social Prescribing aims to focus on what matters to the person rather than what is the matter with the person.

The supports engaged with very much depend on the individual client and what they are hoping for, as well as what is available locally. Examples of support include practical information through Citizens Information or MABS, engagement with groups such as Men’s and Women’s Sheds, the library, local Sports Partnerships and many more. The profile of those engaging with the service covers all demographics, with service users currently from the age of 19 up to 90.

It is important to note that Social Prescribing is not a crisis intervention, social work or counselling service. It is not suitable for those who may be in active addiction, presenting with acute mental health needs or in crisis. In this instance, the support of more specialist service may be required.

Get in touch today

To learn more about Social Prescribing and how it may help you or someone you know, contact Shauna on 0874068095 or email [email protected]