Walking Alongside People: The Impact of Social Prescribing on Mental Health

By Karen Greenough

I recently met with Lynda, one of the three social prescribers at PAVO, to learn more about her role and the difference social prescribing can make to people’s mental health. Lynda describes Social prescribing as a person-centred approach that supports individuals who are living with a range of health conditions. The criteria for the PAVO social prescribing is that these people are also between 50 and 70 years old. Health issues may include problems with muscles or joints, heart or circulation, breathing, hormones or metabolism, and mental health. Lynda explains that at the heart of social prescribing is a simple but powerful conversation: “What matters to you?” From there, Lynda works closely with each individual to understand their goals and any barriers they may be facing. Together, they explore activities and groups that could help improve their wellbeing. Support is tailored to each person. For some, that might mean being introduced to a local gardening club and then encouraged to attend independently. For others, it could involve attending a yoga session together until they feel confident enough to go alone. The aim is always the same: to build confidence, independence, and connection.

Tackling Social Isolation

Many of the people referred to the service are experiencing poor mental health, often alongside other conditions. As Lynda explains, social isolation is a major contributing factor. For many, this isolation has developed over time, with the COVID-19 pandemic playing a significant role. A key part of Lynda’s role is gently exploring how that isolation has come about and helping people reconnect with activities, with their community, and with a sense of belonging. She described what she calls a “magical moment” in social prescribing: when someone finds the right group or activity.

One example she shared was of a woman who had recently moved to the area. She was struggling with a back problem and feeling both lonely and isolated. After getting to know her, Lynda suggested trying a craft café. The first one they visited was friendly but didn’t feel like the right fit. Recognising this, Lynda encouraged her to try another group. This time, everything clicked. The woman later told Lynda she had “found her people.” Since then, she has made friends, started attending additional groups, and no longer feels isolated. Alongside this, she accessed support from Mind, and her overall wellbeing has improved significantly.

She no longer needs support from the service, which, as Lynda points out, is exactly the goal.

Measuring Progress

To understand the impact of social prescribing, clients are asked to complete a short wellbeing assessment known as WEMWBS (Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale). This allows individuals to rate how they are feeling at a given time. While it captures only a snapshot, it becomes a valuable tool when used over time. Assessments are completed at the start, after three months, and again at six months. This helps both the service and the individual see the progress being made. For many, it’s especially powerful on difficult days,a reminder of just how far they’ve come.

Supporting Complex Needs

Not every journey is straightforward. Lynda spoke about another individual who came to the service with very poor mental health. He had previously accessed support in various places, including from Mind, but with limited success. With encouragement, he agreed to try again, this time alongside social prescribing support. He is now volunteering at a repair café and beginning to rebuild a sense of purpose and routine. While external factors still affect his mental health, having consistent, personalised support is helping him move forward.

Why Social Prescribing Works

Social prescribing supports mental health in several important ways:

• Reducing loneliness and isolation: Connecting people with community groups helps combat one of the biggest contributors to poor mental health.
• Boosting confidence and self-esteem: Trying new activities and meeting others can rebuild a sense of purpose and self-worth.
• Encouraging physical activity and time in nature: Activities like walking groups or gardening can have a powerful impact on wellbeing.
• Addressing root causes of stress and anxiety: Social prescribers can work alongside other organisations to support issues such as housing, finances, or unemployment.
• Providing personalised support: Every journey is different, and the approach is tailored to what matters most to the individual.
• Complementing clinical care: It works alongside traditional treatments to support long-term health and wellbeing.

To find out more about PAVO’s Social Prescribing Service CLICK HERE To make a referral to the Social prescribing service

• Call : 01597 828 649
• Email : community.connectors@pavo.org.uk
• Online: Complete our Referral Form