Bailiwick Social Prescribing services are widened at KGV

The BSP team recently attended the fourth International Social Prescribing Conference. Today marks Social Prescribing Day, where the need for non-medical support is highlighted.

BSP lead Melissa Mitchell said part of the organisation’s role was to offer people support and introduce them to community groups and services.

‘We focus on what is strong, not what is wrong,’ she said.

‘We are always looking for opportunities to help people be more socially connected.’

Well-attended BSP groups such as singing for health, tai chi, and Arts for Impact take place at Styx Centre, and will also be extended to the KGV at the end of the month.

‘We know those activities have proven health and wellbeing benefits,’ Ms Mitchell added.

‘It’s all a really good opportunity for being in a friendly group.’

She said tai chi had helped people when they were feeling in a low mood.

‘It’s also good for balance, particularly for older people and it is really good at preventing falls.’

Candace Green is a link worker at BSP, helping those needing access to food banks, benefits, debt advice and employment, as well as empowering people with autism, a learning disability or sensory impairment to get support.

She said BSP activities were one of many things they did.

‘It’s life-changing for some people. We are looking at starting a community hub at the KGV with lots of different activities in it – we will be continuing to focus on strengths and finding out what matters to people.’

Ms Mitchell encouraged active travel to the KGV.

‘Although there is a lot of parking, we would really encourage people to add physical activity to their journey here, which is good for staying well,’ she said.

BSP has received positive feedback from GPs and physiotherapists, and Ms Mitchell said they received a referral every day.

She added: ‘If someone finds themselves struggling to pay for a GP, BSP can help with support from Victoria Hospital Incorporated.

‘The work we do is not possible without all the amazing charities and partners.’

. For more information, visit www.bsp.org.gg or its Facebook page.

BSP background

BAILIWICK Social Prescribing was launched within the Health Improvement Commission in July 2021 and has since received more than 170 referrals from IslandHealth and Healthcare Group GPs.

Professionally trained BSP link workers connect individuals to non-medical support and help them address social factors such as housing, education, welfare, work, and isolation, which may be impacting their health.

It is estimated that one in five UK GP appointments focus on wider social needs, and BSP hopes to empower and support people in improving health and increasing social connection.

Link workers often see older people who need practical support but do not know where to turn, people living in inappropriate accommodation, those with long-term conditions or disabilities, or individuals struggling with hoarding or anxiety caused by the pandemic.

The scheme has partnerships with community organisations and charities which offer support.