Social prescribing connects people to activities, groups and services in their local community. The aim of the approach is to meet the practical, social and emotional needs that affect a person’s health and wellbeing. It was introduced in Derbyshire in 2018.

Social prescribing services are usually offered to those over the age of 18. However, there are also services for young people in some areas of Derbyshire.

Those who may benefit from social prescribing services include those who:

  • Have a long-term condition
  • Need support with low level mental health issues
  • Are lonely or isolated
  • Have complex social needs which affect their wellbeing.

You can find more information about social prescribing in Derbyshire on the Joined Up Care Derbyshire website.

Referrals for social prescribing services can usually be made by:

  • your GP
  • another professional supporting you
  • or by self-referral. 

You can find more information here relating to the social prescribing services in your area.

Thrive Social Prescribing for Young People offers a social prescribing service for young people aged 14 to 18 or up to age 25 for those with additional needs. This service is for young people registered at a GP practice in North-East Derbyshire, North Hardwick and Bolsover, North Derbyshire or South Hardwick. The service can also support young people who are care leavers, young carers, those who have refugee or asylum seeker status and those who are NEET (not in education or training) or at risk of becoming NEET in the Chesterfield, Glossop, or North Derbyshire Dales areas.

New Connections is a social prescribing service for the Derbyshire Dales based at Derbyshire Dales CVS. New Connections supports those over the age of 18.

High Peak CVS offers a social prescribing service to those registered at a GP practice in the High Peak area.

The Bureau offers a social prescribing and community navigation service for those who live in the Glossopdale area.

Amber Valley CVS offers a social prescribing service for those registered at GP practices in the Alfreton, Ripley, Heanor and Crich area.

Erewash Voluntary Action offers a social prescribing service for those registered at GP practices in the Erewash area.

Alternatively, speak to your GP practice about their social prescribing service.