Social Prescribing

Onside Advocacy delivers Social Prescribing in Worcestershire in partnership with Primary Care Networks. Social Prescribing helps people take greater control of their health by linking them with non-medical support to address social, economic and environmental factors that affect wellbeing. Social Prescribers are based within GP practices, and GPs and other health and social care professionals can refer individuals to the service. The program recognises that health is influenced by a broad range of factors and aims to connect people to local community supports, activities and services. Specialist Social Prescribing roles include Wellbeing Coaches who provide one-to-one coaching or small group sessions to improve mental wellbeing, coping skills and confidence, using tailored approaches and tools. In Worcestershire, PCNs include Vale of Evesham PCN (Evesham, Broadway, Bredon, Inkberrow), Pershore & Upton PCN (mentioning a referral path via Joy), and Wyre Forest Network of Independent Practices (with self-referral options). Access routes include GP referrals, referrals from other health and social care professionals, and self-referral via an online form or Joy-enabled referral routes (as indicated on the page). A recent Social Prescribing leaflet is available for download. Cost information is not stated on the website. This service is designed to be patient-friendly, focusing on practical pathways to connect individuals with local support and groups to improve overall wellbeing, reduce isolation, and address everyday life challenges. Ready to start? Talk to your GP about Social Prescribing or use the self-referral form and Joy links on this page to begin the process.