Social Prescribing Cornwall

What is Social Prescribing?

Social Prescribing is a method of linking people with non-clinical sources of support within the community. It recognises that health and wellbeing are influenced by factors beyond medical treatment, including social connections, meaningful activities, and local resources.

At Volunteer Cornwall, our project has dedicated Link Workers based within GP surgeries to offer confidential, one-to-one support to patients referred by their GP or healthcare professional. The patient is at the heart of our service and has access to several appointments with the Link Worker over a six-month period.

How Link Workers Support You

Social Prescribing Link Workers can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and social isolation by connecting people to activities and advice in their communities and beyond. Whether you're looking for social groups, physical activities, creative outlets, or practical advice, your Link Worker will listen to your needs and work with you to create a personalised action plan.

Over the course of several appointments, your Link Worker will guide you towards local services and community resources that match your interests and circumstances. The support is tailored to you, with regular follow-ups to see how you're progressing.

Who Can Benefit?

Social Prescribing is for anyone who could benefit from extra support beyond medical treatment. You might be experiencing loneliness, low mood, stress, or simply looking for ways to improve your overall wellbeing and connect with your local community.

To access the service, speak to your GP or healthcare professional about a referral. They will assess whether Social Prescribing is right for you and connect you with one of our Link Workers.

For Healthcare Professionals

If you're a GP or healthcare professional, Social Prescribing offers a valuable resource for supporting patients with non-clinical needs. Our Link Workers are embedded in surgeries across Cornwall, providing an additional layer of holistic care.

The NHS Long Term Plan aims to offer Social Prescribing in all surgeries in England, recognising its importance in addressing the wider determinants of health. We work closely with healthcare teams to ensure seamless referrals and patient-centred support.

Our Partners

Social Prescribing Cornwall is a collaboration between Volunteer Cornwall and local GP surgeries across the region. We work with a wide network of community organisations, charities, and voluntary groups to ensure patients have access to a diverse range of support options.

Our partnerships enable us to connect people with everything from walking groups and arts classes to benefits advice and volunteering opportunities. Together, we're building healthier, more connected communities.

Get in Touch

For more information about Social Prescribing or to discuss a referral, please contact us or speak to your GP. We're here to help you access the support you need.