Social prescribing is a service provided by your local GP surgery and is a way in which you can be helped to link with a range of local, non-medical activities, opportunities and community support that can improve your health and help you to ‘live life to the full’.
These activities, opportunities and support are typically provided by locally based, voluntary and community sector organisations.
Whether you need help at home, want to discover more about local activities or find out about benefits and support services that exist they can help you. The aim of the social prescriber is to support you to live as independently as possible.
What services or activities might be able to access?
- Getting involved in local groups and activities and social afternoons
- Befriending, counselling and other support groups
- Dealing with bereavement, retirement or new baby
- Housing, benefits and financial support and advice
- Help with transport or volunteering
We will work hard to find the activity or support that works for you.
How could this improve my health?
We know that being active, engaging with others, learning something new and getting involved in the world around you can improve your mental health and wellbeing.
What do social prescribers do?
A social prescriber is someone:
- You can talk to confidentially
- Who is practical, helpful and will not judge you
- Who can help you decide
- Who can find you activities
- Who you can support along the way
Burford Surgery’s Social Prescriber is Liz Woolven from MIND.
Speak to Reception if you would like to be put in contact with her, and they will be able to arrange an appointment in person or over the phone. You GP may also refer you to her.