Creating a Neighbourhood Health service

One in five GP appointments are for non-medical reasons. At a time when demand for GP appointments is at an all-time high and the pressure on secondary services is overwhelming, Lord Dhazi’s 2024 report stresses the need to prioritise neighbourhood level care, prevent ill-health and tackle health inequalities.

Social prescribing plays a vital role in providing practical support for people who are struggling with loneliness, low-level mental health conditions, caring responsibilities and financial issues such as debt.

Faith groups contribute significantly to local social prescribing networks and, with their focus on community, relationship and holistic wellbeing, they can play a foundational role in preventative healthcare by supporting individuals to access the right support early on.

The impact of this is already being seen through initiatives such as Warm Welcome. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has outlined his vision of ‘a revolution of prevention’ and a ‘Neighbourhood Health Service’. This report calls for the contribution of faith groups to be fully recognised and for proactive collaboration between faith communities, the voluntary sector, and the NHS.

The event is designed for anyone eager to strengthen the connections between faith and social prescribing. It will be beneficial for local ministry or church leaders, link workers, PCN leads and those exploring how best to resource neighbourhood healthcare at a strategic level.

Our launch will be taking place on Thursday 30th January from 11am - 12pm. To secure your spot, click here to purchase your free tickets. This will grant you access to our Zoom webinar.

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