Social Prescribing

What is Social Prescribing?

Did you know that approximately 1 in 5 people visit their doctor for concerns that aren't medical? At Mid Dorset Primary Care Network, we understand that your physical and mental wellbeing are influenced by much more than just clinical conditions. Factors such as loneliness, stress related to work, financial or housing issues, and managing long-term conditions can significantly impact your overall health.

Social Prescribing is a proactive approach designed to support your wellbeing beyond traditional medical treatments. Instead of focusing solely on medical interventions, Social Prescribing connects you with community resources, groups, and activities that can make a real difference in your life. Whether you’re feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or struggling to manage day-to-day challenges, Social Prescribing aims to find out what matters most to you and link you to the appropriate support.

How does it work?

Our Social Prescribing team takes the time to listen to your individual needs and concerns. We then guide you towards community-based solutions that can help enhance your wellbeing. This might include:

  • Connecting you with local support groups and social activities
  • Providing information on community services and resources
  • Offering guidance on managing stress and improving mental health
  • Helping you resolve practical issues related to housing, finances, or employment

By focusing on your unique needs and preferences, Social Prescribing empowers you to take control of your own health and wellbeing. It’s about creating a supportive network that complements your medical care and addresses the broader factors impacting your life.

How to see a Social Prescriber

At Mid Dorset Primary Care Network, we are committed to helping you achieve a better quality of life through holistic and personalised support.

We have Social Prescribers embedded into all our practices so if you’re interested in learning more about Social Prescribing or want to see how it can benefit you, get in touch with your GP surgery today.

Have you had a chance to experience our Social Prescribing Service? Your feedback is important to us, and we'd greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to complete the following form, your insights will help us shape and improve the service moving forward.

Patient Social Prescribing Feedback Form