Social prescribing has the potential to play a transformative role in supporting people in and into employment. We want to work with you to better understand the opportunities and challenges in this space.
An NHS Confed Report, released in Sept 2024, suggested there is a role for social prescribing to support people to remain or return to employment. In particular, it suggested there is a need for pathways to social prescribing within an employment setting rather than primary care for the 18-24 age group, who are less likely to engage via a primary care route.
'There may also be value in having a formal role for employers, allowing them to directly refer employees into the system. As well as better links into social prescribing to offer volunteering and/or flexible working opportunities to help stop individuals dropping out of work or helping those who cannot yet find paid full-time roles. Social prescribers can provide an early intervention for people who are struggling at work. This would allow for additional support and a form of triage to better support an individual’s needs, including for those with MSK conditions who would benefit from a referral to occupational health. These improvements could be particularly effective in addressing the segment experiencing the fastest percentage growth in economic inactivity, 18–24-year-olds. This group may be more likely to engage with social prescribing in an employment setting than primary care, which they may not interact with as frequently. Targeting this segment is crucial to prevent long-term disengagement from the workforce amongst the youngest members of society.' See The Full Report
At NASP, we strongly welcome these recommendations and want to further explore the role social prescribing can play in relation to employment. We’re looking to hold an exploratory session to hear from those working in or supporting this area, followed by a webinar to raise awareness and explore innovative approaches that could change the way we think about workplace wellbeing.
If you or your organisation are using social prescribing to support workplace wellbeing, or you have insights and examples of work that supports employment - We want to hear from you!
Get in touch below, giving us a brief description of why you'd like to get involved, and we will be in touch. You can also share your thoughts in the comment section below!