What is Social Prescribing? 

Social Prescribing is a non-medical intervention that enables GPs to refer patients with social, emotional or practical needs to a range of local activities or services in the community that might benefit them, such as volunteering.   

Who will benefit from Social Prescribing?

There is increasing evidence(1) to support the use of social prescribing for people experiencing mild to moderate mental health problems such as mild depression and anxiety, patients who present frequently in primary care and those who are vulnerable or in a risk group.  

What are the benefits of Social Prescribing? 

• Improved mental wellbeing by increasing awareness of own skills
• Increased levels of social contact
• Reduced levels of prescribing antidepressants for mild depression
• Reduction in waiting lists for psychological services
• Reduced attendance at primary care 

Who is providing this service? 

The Jewish Volunteer Network (JVN) is working in partnership with the CCG to provide this service as part of the Re-imagining Mental Health Programme.  The JVN provides access to over 200 volunteer opportunities from over 300 charities, irrespective of age, gender, religious affiliation or ability.  The JVN considers volunteering to be a critical element to the wellbeing of an individual and also to the community and society as whole.

How to refer

The following clinicians can refer to this service: GPs, Nurses, If you feel that your patient would benefit from volunteering, please fill in the electronic form via the JVN website. A member of the JVN team will then be in touch with them directly.