Sources of Support (Social Prescribing)
Social prescribing services differ in their approach and remit. In Dundee, Link Workers case manage the
needs of the patient to help them achieve identified goals. The remit is to work with patients whose
mental health and wellbeing is impacted by social and economic issues, which means that Link
Workers and Support Workers work with any non-medical issue. The service can help with: Social Isolation; Core/essential needs (food, fuel, etc.); Building structure and routine Employability (work, training, learning); Housing; Self help resources to improve mental health wellbeing; Lifestyle; Building connections and Finance. This list is not exhaustive. The service works with a range of linked colleagues and services to help achieve the best outcomes for each patient. For finance issues, appointment can be made directly with the Brooksbank Welfare Rights Worker who is based in the Practice on Thursday mornings (09.00-12.30).
Link Worker: Mondays: 09.00-12.00; 13.00-16.00
Support Worker: Tuesdays: 13.00-16.00
Link Worker: Wednesdays; 13.00-16.00
Acceptability criteria
The service is inclusive and complementary to other forms of healthcare provision. It does not act as a substitute for services that address explicit health and social care needs. The Service will accept adult patients (>16 years) who meet the following criteria:
- Mental Health and wellbeing impacted by social and economic circumstances e.g.
- Long term physical conditions (when physical health issues are being managed but support to
improve mental wellbeing is required). - Mental health issues (when mental health issues are being managed but support to
- Frequent attenders in primary care.
Exclusion criteria
Some patient's needs will not be best met by the service. The service advises that the patients with unmanaged/unsupported substance use issues and/or patients who are experiencing a mental health crisis, including acute episodes of psychosis, are directed to relevant specialist services.
Referral Process
Referrals will be accepted from GPs or any members of the wider practice team including administrative
staff. Please complete a GP Practice Staff referral form and email it to tay.sourcesofsupport@nhs.scot