Exploring Social Prescribing: Connecting Communities for Better Wellbeing
Exploring Social Prescribing: Connecting Communities for Better Wellbeing
We had another great show in March when we Sophie Buckley from PAVS Joined Myself Hayley, Tom and Tammy, In our latest show to delve into the fascinating world of social prescribing. A concept that is becoming increasingly recognised for its ability to connect individuals with community resources to improve health and wellbeing. Sophie shared valuable insights into how social prescribing is making a difference in Pembrokeshire.
I have been involved with Llanelli Social Prescribing team for nine years. Being a referral option for patients experiencing general anxiety, social anxiety, depression, and OCD and supporting the Social Prescribers I saw referrals to fishing clubs, choirs, cycling clubs, wild water swimming. It was a great way for patients to get immediate help and support to find the right service for them. So it was great to hear about Pembrokeshire’s community connectors.
What is Social Prescribing?
Social prescribing is all about helping individuals improve their wellbeing by engaging in community activities, services, or support networks. Instead of solely relying on medical treatments. Social prescribing service vary from area to area, although the aim is the same, to support people to thrive using community resources and they can be ‘prescribed’ activities like: Joining a choir Attending art classes Participating in physical activities Engaging in knit-and-natter groups Accessing warm spaces and community hubs
These interventions are invaluable un helping reduce isolation, improve mental and physical health, and empowering people to take control of their wellbeing.
The Role of Community Connectors
From our chat with Sophie, it feels like they do exactly what they say on the tin, they are working to connect the people with the community of Pembrokeshire. The Community Connectors play a crucial role in linking people to local services. I was glad to hear that referrals can be made to the Pembrokeshire Community Hub by GP practices, voluntary groups, and individuals themselves. Where the trained team ensures that people find the right support for their needs. This strength-based and person led approach ensures that individuals are guided based on what truly matters to them.
A Growing Movement in Wales
I believe Wales were one of the pioneer areas for social prescribing, leading the way with its approach to social prescribing, supported by initiatives like the Future Generations and Wellbeing Act. The Welsh Government has also introduced a national framework to ensure best practices across all counties.
Sophie highlighted how Pembrokeshire has been at the forefront of this movement, with over ten years of work in this area. Pembrokeshire is luck to have access to over sixty community buildings hosting a variety of activities, with the premise there something for everyone to get involved in.
As an outsider of Pembrokeshire but involved in Pure West Radio, I always feel the heart behind every community event, the support, the community feel, lost over the generations. I don’t know your thoughts, but I am convinced that the loss of the sense of community I grew up in, that little village called Hendy, we need people pulling communities together.
My childhood is filled with memories of village carnivals filled with well dressed lorries, and fantastically creative costumes, Hendy outdoor pool where children and teenagers played May to September, the cricket and rugby clubs were the social heart and everyone knew everyone. It always feels like Pembrokeshire is working hard to continue that tradition.
The Importance of Social Connection
With increasing pressures on healthcare services, social prescribing is there to provides an alternative way to support you before issues escalate. It’s not about replacing statutory services but rather enhancing them by ensuring people stay active, engaged, and supported within their communities.
As we discussed, whether it’s choirs, community meals, exercise groups, or creative arts, the key message is clear: community and connection matters.
Find Out More
If you’re in Pembrokeshire and want to explore social prescribing opportunities, reach out to the Pembrokeshire Community Hub at 01437 723660.
Exploring Social Prescribing: Connecting Communities for Better Wellbeing
Exploring Social Prescribing: Connecting Communities for Better Wellbeing
We had another great show in March when we Sophie Buckley from PAVS Joined Myself Hayley, Tom and Tammy, In our latest show to delve into the fascinating world of social prescribing. A concept that is becoming increasingly recognised for its ability to connect individuals with community resources to improve health and wellbeing. Sophie shared valuable insights into how social prescribing is making a difference in Pembrokeshire.
I have been involved with Llanelli Social Prescribing team for nine years. Being a referral option for patients experiencing general anxiety, social anxiety, depression, and OCD and supporting the Social Prescribers I saw referrals to fishing clubs, choirs, cycling clubs, wild water swimming. It was a great way for patients to get immediate help and support to find the right service for them. So it was great to hear about Pembrokeshire’s community connectors.
What is Social Prescribing?
Social prescribing is all about helping individuals improve their wellbeing by engaging in community activities, services, or support networks. Instead of solely relying on medical treatments. Social prescribing service vary from area to area, although the aim is the same, to support people to thrive using community resources and they can be ‘prescribed’ activities like:
Joining a choir
Attending art classes
Participating in physical activities
Engaging in knit-and-natter groups
Accessing warm spaces and community hubs
These interventions are invaluable un helping reduce isolation, improve mental and physical health, and empowering people to take control of their wellbeing.
The Role of Community Connectors
From our chat with Sophie, it feels like they do exactly what they say on the tin, they are working to connect the people with the community of Pembrokeshire. The Community Connectors play a crucial role in linking people to local services. I was glad to hear that referrals can be made to the Pembrokeshire Community Hub by GP practices, voluntary groups, and individuals themselves. Where the trained team ensures that people find the right support for their needs. This strength-based and person led approach ensures that individuals are guided based on what truly matters to them.
A Growing Movement in Wales
I believe Wales were one of the pioneer areas for social prescribing, leading the way with its approach to social prescribing, supported by initiatives like the Future Generations and Wellbeing Act. The Welsh Government has also introduced a national framework to ensure best practices across all counties.
Sophie highlighted how Pembrokeshire has been at the forefront of this movement, with over ten years of work in this area. Pembrokeshire is luck to have access to over sixty community buildings hosting a variety of activities, with the premise there something for everyone to get involved in.
As an outsider of Pembrokeshire but involved in Pure West Radio, I always feel the heart behind every community event, the support, the community feel, lost over the generations. I don’t know your thoughts, but I am convinced that the loss of the sense of community I grew up in, that little village called Hendy, we need people pulling communities together.
My childhood is filled with memories of village carnivals filled with well dressed lorries, and fantastically creative costumes, Hendy outdoor pool where children and teenagers played May to September, the cricket and rugby clubs were the social heart and everyone knew everyone. It always feels like Pembrokeshire is working hard to continue that tradition.
The Importance of Social Connection
With increasing pressures on healthcare services, social prescribing is there to provides an alternative way to support you before issues escalate. It’s not about replacing statutory services but rather enhancing them by ensuring people stay active, engaged, and supported within their communities.
As we discussed, whether it’s choirs, community meals, exercise groups, or creative arts, the key message is clear: community and connection matters.
Find Out More
If you’re in Pembrokeshire and want to explore social prescribing opportunities, reach out to the Pembrokeshire Community Hub at 01437 723660.