A partnership between Citizens Advice North Somerset and Alliance Homes provides the social prescribing service for Pier Health Group in Weston-super-Mare.

A team of Link Workers is assigned to five GP practices across Weston, Winscombe and Banwell. The GPs, nurses and other practice staff make referrals to the Link Worker when they identify patients with social (non-medical) needs. The Link Worker holds appointments with the referred patient and offers short- to medium-term support and guidance to help them improve their wellbeing.

With the help of the Link Worker the patient can:

• Learn how to deal with day-to-day issues like pensions, benefits, and money
• Learn how to get access to the support services they need
• Meet people and get involved in the activities they enjoy