Information in the City
http://informationnow.org.uk/articles/602/information-in-the-city
The above four websites provide information regarding:-
Information Now:
Newcastle's Older People's information and advice website: Helping you to plan ahead, make choices and live a good quality of life.
Health signpost directory:
Discover local groups/services who provide support, advice and activities to improve your health and well-being
Family information services:
A guide to local organisations, childcare and events.
Patient information centre:
Mental health and wellbeing information including self help guides, health information in other languages and a searchable self help and support directory.
Social Prescribing
Social Prescribing is where you are prescribed activity or exercise to improve your physical and mental health. It may be used in place of medication or alongside other forms of treatment. It’s also known as a community referral.
Who is Social Prescribing for
Social Prescribing works well for people with:
- mild or long term mental health problems
- long term health conditions, such as: multiple sclerosis, diabetes, heart disease or people who need to lose weight
- loneliness
- social or emotional needs
- and for people who make repeat visits to health care services
How does Social Prescribing work
- GPs, nurses or healthcare professionals refer you to a Social Prescribing Service. You are given an appointment with a Link Worker also known as a connector, navigator or an enabler.
- they work with you to understand your needs and interests to create your personal plan.
- you are referred to activities in your community such as cooking classes, gardening, art, music, exercise, lunch clubs, volunteering and much more.
- support may be given to you to attend activities in the community until you feel confident to attend independently.
- further appointments and continued support are offered where needed.
Examples of how Social Prescribing may help
If you are feeling lonely being referred to a social group or activity might help you to feel happier and more connected.
If losing weight may help to you to improve your health, walking groups or a community gym sessions can help.
How to access Social Prescribing - Speak yo your GP