Social Prescribers (PCN ARRS)

The role of Social Prescribers is to help people address social problems they are facing that impact their wellbeing – there are many life problems that make you feel unwell.  Our Social Prescribers are there to listen and help, using their connections with voluntary organisations, clubs and specialised services to improve patients’ quality of life.

Our Social Prescribing team are known as Link Workers and they take a holistic approach to people's health and wellbeing, giving people the time and space to talk and focusing on each individual's definition of 'what matters to me.'

They connect people to the most appropriate and helpful community groups and statutory services providing practical and emotional support.

Social Prescribing Link Workers also support existing community groups to be accessible and sustainable, and to help people to start new groups, working collaboratively with all local partners.

They will visit you at home to chat about the issues you are facing, which could include:

  • Living alone
  • Feeling lonely
  • Money worries
  • Language barriers
  • Work or unemployment
  • Housing issues
  • Children and families
  • Health and fitness
  • Weight problems
  • Smoking

Together, you’ll work out what’s important to you and find local activities, benefits and services that will make life easier and better. They’ll support you to access those services too.

Accessing the service

People can be referred to Link Workers from a wide range of local agencies, including GPs, pharmacies, multi-disciplinary teams, hospital discharge teams, allied health professionals, the fire service, the police, job centres, social care services, housing associations and voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations.

Who should be referred

Our Receptionists or Health and Wellbeing team can refer you to a Social Prescriber via https://services.thejoyapp.com/en/listings/5628 or you can request to see one yourself by emailing barnsleyccg.pcnsocialprescribing@nhs.net or by downloading a self-referral Social Prescribing form below.

Updated:  January 2025

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