What is Social Prescribing?
Social prescribing is a new way to help people by linking them to activities and services in their community that can improve their health and happiness. Instead of just giving medicine, social prescribing focuses on connecting individuals with things like groups and programs that can meet their unique needs and make them feel better by being more involved and connected.
(Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/social-prescribing-applying-all-our-health/social-prescribing-applying-all-our-health)
Benefits of Social Prescribing:
Acquiring new skills: Engaging in social prescribing activities offers chances to learn and develop new skills, supporting personal growth.
Creating Relationships: Through involvement in community activities, students can widen their social circles, establish meaningful relationships, and combat feelings of loneliness.
Community Involvement: Participating in local projects and groups not only benefits students' well-being but also reinforces community unity and strength.
Increasing Self-assurance: Attaining personal goals and succeeding in social engagements can boost self-confidence and self-esteem.
Improving Life Quality: Ultimately, social prescribing aims to enhance overall quality of life by addressing various aspects of health and well-being.
(Source: https://socialprescribingacademy.org.uk/what-is-social-prescribing)
Five Steps to Social Prescribing:
1. Consultation: Student must take an appointment with our therapy and mental health team to discuss their needs and preferences and fill out a social prescription questionnaire and return it for evaluation.
2. Prescription: Based on the assessment, student will receive a tailored 'prescription' recommending specific activities or services in their community.
3. Follow-Up: Following the prescription, student will receive follow-up communication detailing how to access and engage with the recommended activities.
4. Enjoyment: Participants get on their social prescription journey, immersing themselves in enriching experiences and connecting with others.
5. Regular evaluation: After a designated period, student need to complete a review questionnaire to assess the impact of the prescribed activities on their well-being, providing valuable feedback for future interventions.
For more information, please scan the QR code above, or email therapy.mh@solent.ac.uk