Darnall Well Being Social Prescribing Link Workers

Noreen talking to a client — Noreen with a client

What is a Link Worker?

A Link Worker is here to support a client by:

Working alongside a GP and other health professionals
Offering a safe, confidential space to talk
Listening to the problems a person is facing
Helping them explore “what matters most to you”
Agreeing goals together that feel right for them
Communicating with other services on their behalf
Connecting them with local activities and services

Link Workers typically work with people over 6-12 contacts either via phone calls or face-to-face meetings. This can happen over a three-month period.

We encourage the team to meet with clients face-to-face as much as possible.

What we can work on with a client:

Long term conditions (self-management) including Dementia, Diabetes, persistent pain.
Healthy eating
Exercising
Menopause
Social isolation
Carer pressures
Cost of living pressures
Families and parenting
Frequently attending GP
Struggling to access and navigate services
Low level mental health
Confidence building
Engagement in, and accessing, community activities, including volunteering opportunities

Alfred with a client — Alfred talks to a client

Eram with clients — Eram working with a client

We cannot work with a client who:

who has not consented to be referred to DWB
who is experiencing a severe, unmanaged mental health episode
who is engaging in criminal activity
who is known to be aggressive, violent or abusive to staff

We can refer or signpost people for support with:

Employment, skills, training and learning
Benefits
Debt
Housing
Moderate mental health issues
A diagnosed mental health condition which is well managed
Bereavement
Aids and adaptations
Stopping smoking
Social care

We may be able to work with*:

Those struggling with alcohol/substance abuse
Those who are having suicidal ideation
Those with severe learning disabilities
Those who are under 18, unless part of a family unit or for a specific project e.g. Children, Young People and Families Social Prescribing Link Worker or SCH Family Coach

*referral will be discussed before being accepted

How to make a referral to a Link Worker as a professional: