Supporting link workers in primary care networks
To support the new PCN link workers we have created a suite of resources and learning events.
- The Summary Guide, which gives a clear picture of what a good social prescribing scheme looks like. It also includes a Common Outcomes Framework to help measure the impact of social prescribing on people, the local system, and the voluntary and community sector.
- The Reference Guide for PCNs with information on setting up social prescribing services including support for recruitment, induction and supervision. It also outlines what quality assurance measures are necessary, and how information can be gathered to help develop a consistent evidence base for social prescribing.
- A welcome and induction pack for link workers in primary care networks.
- A handout for practice staff to give to people who are referred to a social prescribing link worker.
- Series of themed webinars.
- Learning coordinators in each region to facilitate peer support and learning opportunities.
- Accredited online training – the five modules are now live:
- Introduction to the social prescribing link worker role
- Developing personalised care and support plans with people
- Developing partnerships
- Introducing people to community groups and VCSE organisations
- Safeguarding vulnerable people
- Available soon: Keeping records and measuring impact.
A group of experienced link workers in Herts Valley have compiled a set of top tips for newly appointed social prescribing link workers. The advice is captured in a blog by Carol Nutkins of Herts Valley CCG.
Supporting the development of social prescribing link workers in primary care networks: series of webinars
NHS England is continuing to support the development of social prescribing in primary care networks through a series of webinars aimed at social prescribing link workers and those working within primary care. The webinars focus on a range of topics, covering some of the key approaches to effective social prescribing.
Current webinar dates and themes are show below. Click on the links below to register your interest and get the sign in details.
Connecting people to local sports clubs
Date and time: 12 February 2020, 3:00pm
This webinar will showcase the work of the English Football League (EFL,) nationally and locally, and give insights into how you can link with local community sports activities.
Pre-reading material: Social Prescribing Link Workers: reference guide for PCNs
Making our information accessible to all – Registration
Date and time: 26 February 2020, 3:00pm
This webinar will help link workers to understand how the NHS England Accessible Information Standard can make information more accessible, and in particular, ensure services are more accessible to people with learning disabilities and autism.
Pre-reading material: Social Prescribing Link Workers: reference guide for PCNs
Connecting to your local leisure and sport activities centres
Date and time: 25 March 2020, 3:00pm
This webinar will cover a presentation from UK Active. UK Active is responsible for promoting sporting activities to improve the health of the nation. They manage a network of infrastructure and resources across the country and are likely to be a key ally for link workers looking to refer people on to sporting activities as part of their overall support package.
Pre-reading material: Social Prescribing Link Workers: reference guide for PCNs
Slides and presentations used on previous webinars are available on the social prescribing community on the Future NHS platform. (If you are not already a member just email england.socialprescribing@nhs.net.) Topics covered include:
- Co-producing personalised care and support plans
- Using the Patient Activation Measure (PAM)
- Assessing wellbeing – using the ONS4 Wellbeing tool
- Safeguarding
- Looking after yourself and effective use of supervision
- Supporting community groups to receive people
- Keeping people physically active
- Connecting people to nature
- Making every contact count
- Creative support – connecting people to the arts