Social Prescriber
What is a career as a social prescriber in social care?
A Social Prescriber is a professional who helps individuals access non-medical sources of support to improve their health and well-being. They work closely with patients to understand their needs and connect them with community services, activities, and resources that can help with issues such as mental health, chronic conditions, loneliness, or social isolation. Social prescribers typically work within primary care settings, including GP practices or community health teams.
Key duties:
- Assess patient needs to understand social, emotional, and practical challenges.
- Connect patients with community services, local support groups, and charities.
- Develop personalised support plans to help individuals access relevant resources.
- Encourage lifestyle changes by promoting social activities, exercise, and volunteering.
- Monitor progress and provide ongoing support to patients.
- Collaborate with healthcare teams to ensure comprehensive care.
- Advocate for patients, helping them navigate services and systems.
- Document interactions and progress according to healthcare standards.
Entry routes and pay
There are typically no set entry requirements to become a social prescriber. Some employers may expect a good standard of literacy and numeracy, including GCSEs in English and maths.
It can be helpful to have experience of offering advice and support or volunteering in your community. It might also be helpful to have knowledge of local social care and health services, community and volunteering groups.
A typical salary will start at £24,000 with opportunities to progress into experienced roles up to £30,000.
Where can you work?
Care Home
Community
Doctors’ Practice
Hospice
Hospital
Mental Health
