Social Prescribing
– Northside
Cork City
Free, one-to-one support that connects you with community groups, activities, and services to improve your health and wellbeing.
Who is this for?
Adults over 18 years old,
with chronic health conditions,
feeling lonely, isolated.
How it works?
Referral > Meet > Plan > Connect
Benefits
Make new friends, learn new skills, boost your wellbeing, improve self-esteem, reduce stress, develop healthier habits, be socially connected.
Activities You Can Join
Examples of activities You can join include: Gardening, Yoga, Tai-Chi, Choir, Indoor Bowling, Art Classes,
Walking Poles, Women’s Group,
Men’s Shed.
What Is Social Prescribing?
Social Prescribing is a new free service funded by the HSE based on the well known fact that people who are socially connected are likely to be healthier and happier.
Social Prescribing is a short-term programme (usually 2-8 weeks, with an average of 6-8 sessions). It is not suitable for people who require ongoing intensive support.
Depending on the person’s needs and interests, the Social Prescriber may connect them with a wide range of local options, including community groups, activities, volunteering opportunities, education courses, counselling, and other specific supports. Referrals can include physical activity initiatives (such as walking groups or parkrun), reading groups, library services, stress prevention or management programmes, self-help, adult education, financial advice services, men’s sheds, community gardening, arts, and creativity – depending on what is available locally.
After the first consultation, we begin to work on a person-centred plan together. This involves setting goals, discussing the changes the person would like to make in their life, identifying what supports they need to achieve them, and agreeing a timeframe and responsibilities. The Social Prescriber works in collaboration with the person, using a personalised coaching and co-production approach. The focus is always on what matters to the person, rather than what is the matter with the person.
The Social Prescriber will provide encouragement and motivation until the person is engaged with a suitable community service, group, or activity – unless they choose to withdraw from the service.
It is important to highlight that social prescribing is not a replacement for adequate clinical services, nor is it a social work or counselling service.
Who Is Social Prescribing For?
Social Prescribing Service is available for adults over 18 years old, including but not limited to the following people:
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with one or more long-term conditions,
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living with mild or long-term mental health challenges,
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who are lonely or isolated,
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who are frequent GP/ED attendees and may benefit from other social supports outside of clinical services,
- have the ability to actively engage,
- who is ready to make changes,
- who is able to access services independently.
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How Social Prescribing Works?
1. Referral
You can contact the Social Prescribing Link Worker yourself (phone, email, or post the referral form) or be referred by a health professional or community worker.
2. Meet the Link Worker
Once your referral is processed, the Link Worker will phone you. If you are happy to proceed, an appointment will be arranged at a suitable time to meet in person. This will be a relaxed one-to-one conversation (45–60 minutes) where you can explore your needs, interests, and the supports available.
3. Plan Together
Together with the Link Worker, you will create a simple personal plan to connect you with local groups and supports. This plan is developed in collaboration over an average of 6–8 sessions, ensuring it fits your needs and goals.
4. Join & Connect
Take part in local community activities and services, with ongoing support from your Link Worker. They will stay in touch to encourage and motivate you, helping you make positive changes and checking in to ensure your experience is going well.
Testimonials
‘I think I was in darkness a lot of my life, you know. This was the start of lots of things for me… I have learned how to filter. I can stop and say ‘Right what’s
happened here?’… To know what’s going on in your head… it doesn’t take away the stress… but it lessens it and then you’re ready to face it. This whole thing is about talking to people and getting in there you know…. I’m able to converse with people without blushing now. Opening my mouth and not feel that I’m not relevant’.
(Judy Service User, 60 years, Bray)
‘Social prescribing made such a big difference to me and my mental health. A year later when my dad passed away, I was already linked into many interests and people in my community. It came at the right time as I would hate to think where I would be if I had not made that initial phone call’.
(Katie Service User, 49 years, Mayo)
‘I’ve something to get up now and do in the morning… I’m delighted, I love it to be honest… (social prescribing link worker) is wicked sound’.
(Gearoid Service User, 21 years, Waterford)
Where is Social Prescribing available?
HSE-funded Social Prescribing services are now available in over 40 locations around the country. These services are delivered in partnership with community and voluntary organisations.
Social Prescribing Northside Cork City is based in NICHE Health Project (Cork)
HSE Building, Harbour View Rd, Knocknaheeney, Cork T23 XY16
Phone: 021 430 0135
Mobile / WhatsApp : 086 014 7504
Email: socialprescribing@nicheonline.ie
Social Prescribing Northside Cork City Catchment Areas:
Hollyhill, Knocknaheeny, Gurranabraher, Churchfield,
Blackpool, Farranree, Ballyvolane, The Glen, Mayfield
Want to make an appointment
with the Social Prescriber,
or more information on what Social Prescribing is?
We’re Here to Help!