How can seniors find a Link Worker to access social prescribing?

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Seniors can find a Link Worker by asking their primary care provider or GP for a referral to a social prescribing service, which is now a standard part of many healthcare teams.

• Request a Referral During Your Next Check-Up: Ask your doctor specifically, “Do you have a social prescribing service or a Link Worker I can be referred to?” In the UK, many Integrated Care Boards now fund these roles within community primary care networks, making it a formal part of the patient pathway.
• Contact Your Local Health Service Directly: If you prefer not to wait for an appointment, call your health centre or community hub. In the US, many clinics now staff a “Health Connector” or dedicated Link Worker who bridges the gap between medical care and community resources.
• Explore Community Hubs and Volunteering: In the UK, the Volunteering Matters initiative and local Age UK branches often act as hubs where you can self-refer for social activities. In the US, look for community health centres that partner with local non-profits to offer direct access to Link Workers.
• Know What to Expect: A Link Worker will assess your interests and health goals, then help you find activities like choirs, gardening, or art classes. Research suggests that such social prescriptions can reduce routine primary care visits by up to 42% by addressing the root causes of loneliness and stress.

admin · 2026-10-17 14:46:55