Oldham prepares to mark Social Prescribing Day

Next Thursday March 9, Oldham will celebrate Social Prescribing Day.

Social Prescribing is a way of connecting people with non-medical sources of support in their community.

It is an important part of creating a healthier and happier Oldham, by taking a holistic approach to addressing the social, emotional, and practical needs of people.

It helps people to take control of their own health and wellbeing and access the right support in their local community.

Social Prescribing Day is an opportunity to celebrate the hundreds of voluntary organisations, community activities and support services operating across Oldham.

In the last year, Oldham’s Social Prescribing team completed 2,277 referrals to these organisations and activities, connecting thousands of people with support in their area.

If people are experiencing loneliness, isolation, anxiety, facing challenges with finances or relationships, living with long-term health conditions, or have recently experienced life-changing events, Social Prescribing can be a way to find free, accessible support.

It’s also a great way to meet people and try new things.

By connecting people with activities and support, Social Prescribing can:

· provide practical and emotional support

· take pressure off the NHS

· tackle health inequalities

· support voluntary organisations

· empower people to live the best lives they can in thriving, connected communities

Local charity Action Together works in partnership with voluntary organisations, healthcare providers, GPs, the local authority and the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership to deliver Social Prescribing for the borough.

They work closely with local voluntary and community groups, services and activities, such as those hosted on their online Community Activities Directory here

Social Prescribing is a free service, and open to anyone who lives in the Oldham Borough.

If you are interested in finding out more about Social Prescribing, or run a community group or activity and would like to work with the service, call 0161 339 2345 (Monday - Friday, 9am - 4pm) or email: gmicb-old.socialprescribing@nhs.net

Alternatively, just click here

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