Have you heard about Social Prescribing?

Social Prescribing was introduced locally in 2017. The concept is to work alongside people to connect them with groups and community resources to help combat social isolation and to promote wellbeing. GPs and other clinicians can refer patients for social prescribing, or individuals can self refer. Some of our Night Light guests first came to us following attending being suggested to them by their social prescriber. The work of Social Prescribers also has similarities with the role of the Night Light Café volunteers who are trained to provide signposting advice to guests to help them to build their own support network and find assistance with any specific needs they might present with.  

I recently had a chat with Gillian, a local social prescriber, to find out more about her job.

What does a typical day look like for you? 

I begin my day by going over my preparations and notes from the previous day and logging into my computer to check my days schedule. I check in with my team and we share information about new groups and services that can benefit the people we work with.  I check for new referrals and gather information for the people I will be meeting that day.  Then I will be off to my first meeting. 

In a first meeting the most important thing I do is to actively listen to the person as they are the expert on themselves. Often a referral will focus on one or two particular needs but through our conversation I discover more needs that I can help people address.  Once I understand their current situation we work together identifying and prioritising their needs and goals and come up with a personalised plan.  Each of these will be different, some people just need some signposting, others will need further referrals to other services and groups, and some will need time to build up confidence and trust before attending different groups firstly with me and eventually independently. 

Midway through the day I may attend a teams meeting or a face-to-face meeting with other healthcare professionals, community organisers and local authorities.  We often work collaboratively with others to achieve the best possible outcomes for all our clients and to share the information we have. 

After that I might meet a client for a walk and talk or accompany them to a new group, community venue or fitness class. It is wonderful to help someone discover a new interest, make a new friend or reconnect with an old hobby. I have clients that have gone from suffering with social anxiety so strongly that they struggle to leave the house to later leading a session at a group they regularly attend. 

Then I might return home and call some clients. Some people prefer to work over the phone, and this is something we are happy to provide. I then send follow up emails to the people I have met or spoken to that day with personalised information for them. I will do referrals for counselling, financial support, domestic support etc and then finish by documenting the day’s interactions and logging all communications. 

How do social connection and engagement in community activities benefit the people you work with? 

Social connection and engagement can significantly reduce loneliness and social isolation and give people a way of belonging in their community that they may not have experienced before. These groups and activities can increase feelings of value and allow people to build more meaningful relationships. They can reduce stress levels and improve mood and wellbeing through spending time doing activities that are enjoyable and build self-confidence.  Social connections have been shown to improve both physical and mental health leading to a longer and happier life. I would encourage anyone to take a chance on trying something new and following their own interests, you never know where it will lead you!

What is the most unusual or interesting activity you have come across in your role? 

I recently accompanied someone to Tai Chi for the first time which we both really enjoyed! I was quite good at that unlike the line dancing I tried a few weeks ago – two left feet and a lot of laughs! I was also really interested to see how some clients have responded to equine therapy.  The horses are so gentle, and the setting (at Hope Meadows) is very peaceful. Lincolnshire is full of treasures!

What have you learnt since becoming a SP? 

I have learnt that Lincolnshire is full of amazing people who are providing a wonderful and varied selection of groups and activities with the aim of improving the health and wellbeing of all people in the county. I have also seen how vital these groups are to so many and would encourage anyone with the time to look for opportunities to volunteer at an existing group or to even set up their own if they have a particular skill or passion!

What drew you to this career? 

I have always loved to hear people’s stories and to help people find what they need to be happier. This role allows me to work with some incredibly strong people who maybe don’t have many or anyone to listen to them. I like to think of myself as a matchmaker only instead of setting someone up with another person I am helping people uncover the strengths and interests they already have and using those to improve their social connections and ultimately their own physical and mental health.  

What advice would you give to someone who is feeling socially isolated? 

Firstly, if you are able, talk to a loved one about how you are feeling. It is tempting to hide away when we are feeling lonely but try calling a friend, you would be surprised at how many people feel the same way. Plan some activities, either with friends or have a look online for local clubs and groups that align with your own interests. I would also recommend volunteering your time, it is a great way to make new friends, find a sense of purpose and learn new skills. Be kind to yourself and don’t compare yourself to other people. We are all on an individual journey, we are all unique and social media never tells you the whole story! Please seek help if you need it, you can self-refer to the social prescribing service at this address https://voluntarycentreservices.org.uk/social-prescribing/ 

You are not alone. 

Also remember you are always welcome at the Night Light Cafés. Please email us at nightlight@actstrust.org.uk for more information or give us a call on 0300 011 1200.