Imagine you visit your doctor, and instead of just giving you a prescription for medication, they give you a different kind of prescription. This prescription isn't for medication; it's for activities, community programs, or hobbies that can improve your overall well-being and health. That's what we call "social prescribing."
Here's how it works:
Meeting Your Needs: A Social Prescribing Link Worker doctor talks to you about your health concerns and your life in general. They listen to not just your physical symptoms but also your emotional and social wellbeing.
Prescription for Life: Based on your conversation, the link worker might recommend activities or services that could benefit you. These could include things like joining a local walking group, taking up gardening, attending an art class, or connecting with a support group for people with similar challenges.
Improving Your Health: By participating in these activities, you can improve your physical health, mental well-being, and social connections. For example, exercise can help with physical fitness, painting can be a creative outlet for stress relief, and joining a support group can provide emotional support.
Personalised Approach: Social prescribing is tailored to your unique needs and preferences. It's not a one-size-fits-all solution. It's about finding what makes you feel better and healthier in a way that suits you.
In a nutshell, social prescribing is like a personalised plan to improve your health and wellbeing by connecting you with activities and services in our community throughout Stockton-on-Tees. It's a way for everyone involved to consider not just your physical health but your overall happiness and life satisfaction, helping you live a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Click on the appropriate option for you (adult or young person/family) below to find out more.
Please note you must be a patient of a BYTES Practice to access these services. Our practices include: Thornaby and Barwick Medical Group, Yarm Medical Practice, Eaglescliffe Medical Practice and Park Lane Surgery in Stockton-on-Tees.
