Social Prescribing Link Worker inPatchway inPatchway PUBLISHED 15 DEC 2023

Main duties

Link Workers give people time to talk about what matters to them and guide them to unpick complex issues affecting their health and wellbeing. They support people to find services and communities that will support or fulfil them. Link Workers will see people in their local GP practice and community venues and may also do home visits.

Working as part of a Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) in GP surgeries, Link Workers will:

• receive referrals from GPs
• support individuals for 4- 6 sessions (over 2-3 months)
• manage a caseload of approximately 35 people (for a full time link worker)

• Using motivational interviewing and other techniques to establish the needs of the individual and provide personalised advice
• Support individuals to address barriers to accessing services or maintaining independence.
• Empower individuals to maximise their potential, producing action plans and facilitating follow-through.
• Accompany individuals to community groups, activities, and statutory services. Following up to ensure they are happy and supported, able to engage, included and receiving good support.
• Follow safeguarding protocols when needed.

• Develop and maintain good relations with practice teams, Southern Brooks teams, and external practitioners. Including participating in team meetings (including multi-disciplinary) and working alongside the wider Southern Brooks team.
• Positively promote the service to practice teams, external agencies, and relevant statutory bodies.
• Contributing to a joined up approach to client action plans.
• Seek support from Manager/ Peers when there are gaps in knowledge or practice limitations.

• Actively seek connections and build relationships between people and groups outside of Southern Brooks.
• Seek opportunities to link individuals to activities, supporting them to develop relationships and build their own social networks.
• Identify gaps in local provision based on the needs of individuals, including opportunities to establish new activities, groups, or introduce new funded projects. Inform the manager of these gaps and opportunities.

• Assist with community resource mapping exercises and share with wider teams in Southern Brooks.
• Maintain accurate case files and records in line with all operational procedures, and produce written reports if required.
• Produce case studies to evidence the impact of the service on an individuals wellbeing.

Social Prescribing Link Workers give people time to talk about what matters to them and guide them to unpick complex issues affecting their health and wellbeing. They support people to find services and communities that will support or fulfil them. Southern Brooks is seeking an experienced and collaborative Social Prescribing Link Worker to join our inclusive and dedicated team, based in South Gloucestershire. This part-time 18.5hpw role offers a salary of £26,6pro rata and the opportunity to be part of a positive and diverse workplace culture.

As a Social Prescribing Link Worker, you will work closely with primary care teams to enable individuals to find the support they need in their community to manage their health and well-being. You will also enable people to have more control over their lives, develop skills and give their time to others through involvement in community groups. You will see people in their local GP practice and community venues and may visit people in their homes.

As a vital member of our team and in return for your passion, collaborative approach and commitment, we will provide a favourable salary, excellent annual leave and sickness benefits, and will even give you the day off for your birthday! And you will join a passionate, inclusive, committed and welcoming workplace.

Please note, in order to take up this position you will need to provide evidence of your Right To Work in the UK. We do not offer Sponsorship.

In your role as Link Worker job, you can expect to:

• Use motivational interviewing and other techniques to establish the needs of the individual
• Support individuals to address barriers to accessing services or maintaining independence
• Empower individuals to maximise their potential, producing action plans and facilitating follow-through
• Accompany individuals to community groups, activities and statutory services
• Effectively manage and prioritise a caseload of individuals offering 4-6 sessions, depending on their needs.