Social prescribing, sometimes referred to as
community referral, is a means of enabling GPs and nurses to refer people to a
range of local, non-clinical services. It also aims to support individuals to
take greater control of their own health. Something so simple that changed my life. This simple
act? A referral to an exercise session at my local GP’s surgery.
The life of an older woman on medication for diabetes,
high blood pressure and depression with osteoarthritis in my hip thrown in for
good measure. It also took the skills and understanding of the health
professionals carrying out my medical reviews to have patience when I was not
mentally ready for change but to collaborate with me when I was.
What I can do
This
was about gentle encouragement focusing on what I could do. Another
patient took me under their wing and I had a laugh. This positive experience including
good company, led to another session the following week and on to regular
attendance. Then we graduated to an hour’s afternoon circuit session once a
week at Heeley Gym in Sheffield facilitated by our very able Health Referral
Specialist. Again it’s about what you can do and good company.
When I
felt ready, the Health Referral Specialist arranged a further one to one
session for me in the week. This was specially designed for my physical needs
but also helped me overcome low motivation by having an appointment to go to. This
support also saw me through my hip replacement surgery and recovery.
I have
made friends at the gym and especially with another lady in the weekly class who
has become a close friend. I do admit we go for tea and cake afterwards but
don’t tell my GP! It’s great for us to
share the good times and the bad, and on occasion put the world to rights.
How has it helped?
Life
is not always a bed of roses but my sugar levels have come down, my high blood
pressure is controlled and my mood is much better. My mobility has come on by ‘leaps
and bounds’ too.
Yes,
social prescribing has certainly improved my quality of life and ability to
cope. It just shows how well my local community can help us build a caring, resilient
and healthy place to live.
Have you ever used social prescribing? Or is there something in your community that helps you feel better about yourself? A club, an exercise class or a group that brings people together? Tell us about your experiences, we'd love to hear them and it could help someone else to have the confidence to look into their own community.
