We support the improvement of social prescribing models for children and young people through knowledge and practice sharing, co-design & engagement.
NCB are working with NHS England’s Personalised Care Team to develop and deliver a Community of Practice network and Good Practice Guide for Children and Young People’s Social Prescribing.
Children and Young People’s Social Prescribing Good Practice Guide
This Guide is designed to support Primary Care Networks and other teams and services who are thinking about developing children and young people’s (CYP) social prescribing and/or for those who are already delivering to CYP, but want to look at developing their service through quality improvement in order to meet national policy commitments outlined in the NHS Long Term Plan.
You can use this link to access the CYP Social Prescribing Good Practice Guide.
About Social Prescribing
Social prescribing for children and young people refers to a holistic approach to healthcare that recognises the influence of social factors on overall wellbeing. It involves the use of non-medical interventions, such as community activities and support services, to improve the physical, mental, and emotional health of children and young people.
Rather than solely relying on traditional medical treatments, social prescribing recognises that addressing social determinants of health can be crucial in promoting overall wellness.
In the context of children and young people, social prescribing may involve connecting them with various community resources and activities that can positively impact their health and development.
This can include participation in sports clubs, art classes, music lessons, outdoor activities, volunteer work, mentoring programs, or access to counselling and mental health support services. The aim is to provide a wide range of options to meet the specific needs and interests of each child or young person, promoting engagement, empowerment, and overall wellbeing.
Social prescribing recognises that factors such as social isolation, lack of opportunities for engagement, and limited access to support networks can contribute to health issues in children and young people. By prescribing social interventions alongside medical treatments, healthcare professionals can help address these underlying social determinants and support the child or young person's overall health and development.
The approach emphasises collaboration between healthcare providers, social service organisations, and community groups to create a comprehensive support network for children and young individuals.