ABOUT THIS EPISODE
What is Social Prescribing?
A new service that connects people with supports and activities in the community to strengthen their health, wellbeing and quality of life.
Social Prescribing is a formal way of enabling healthcare services to support self-management by referring people to a variety of local, non-clinical projects and activities in the community through a link worker.
Who is this project for?
This project is for people over 18 years of age, living in South Dublin who may need additional support to mind wider health and wellbeing needs previously identified by General Practitioners. This project is mainly beneficial to people who may feel lonely, socially isolated, anxious, depressed or in need of different kinds of social supports.
What are the results?
This is a new service that is being piloted since August 2018. The main achievements so far are the engagement of Healthcare Professionals from two general practices in Tallaght (Glenview Clinic and Parkhouse Family Practitioners in Brookfield) who are currently referring patients to the Social Prescribing Service. From this pilot project we expect: increased acceptability and uptake of the Social Prescribing service; improved patient self-reported wellbeing; reduced pressure in clinical workload; improved connectivity between medical and community sector.
Who are the funders?
Health Services Executive (HSE), Healthy Ireland and the Social inclusion and Community Activation Programme.
How can I find out more about the project?
For more information please contact the Social Prescribing Coordinator: Deirdre Ruane.
Mobile: 0873336208
