Social prescriber

You’ll connect people with non-medical support, such as day centres, charities or community groups to reduce loneliness and improve their quality of life.

If you are a good listener who is able to put people at ease and gain their trust, with good writing and digital skills, then this role is ideal for you.

Role overview

Your role might include:

• assessing what support people need, such as physical activities, learning new skills, making new friends or finding employment
• finding local support services such as community groups and charities for people to go to
• referring people who need care and support into a range of local activities
• reviewing the progress that people make.

You could specialise in one area of care and support, for example supporting people with physical disabilities to be more physically active in the community. 

Social prescribers usually work in a GP surgery, health centre or community organisation.

Skills and experience

This is a relatively new role and there are no formal qualification requirements, but it can be helpful to have experience of offering advice and support or volunteering in your community. It might also be helpful to have knowledge of local social care and health services, community and volunteering groups.

Opportunities

Your employer will provide training necessary for your role such as safeguarding adults, IT skills and first aid. 

Whilst working, you could do a vocational qualification such as a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care or a wellbeing specific qualification or short course.