#FaithinPartnership Week

11th – 15th September 2023

See what happened during our week celebrating and championing cross-sector working!

Inclusive social prescribing.

Learning from engagement with grassroots VCFSE organisations.

What did we do?

Through focus groups and interviews with both health system partners and VCFSE representatives, our goal was to find out:

  1. What does “inclusive social prescribing” mean?
  2. What challenges do we face in making this a reality?
  3. What actions are needed:
    1. From VCFSE organisations?
    2. From statutory health partners?

What did people say “inclusive social prescribing” looks like?

  • Something everyone is aware of and can fully understand
  • Accessible to all, especially for those who struggle to access primary care
  • Focussed on the whole-person, and what and who matters to them
  • Involves communities from the start, and throughout

What were the key challenges identified in achieving inclusive social prescribing?

  • Language
  • Geographical inequality
  • Gaps in awareness
  • Access
  • Capacity
  • Negative perceptions

What were some of the recommendations to overcome these challenges?

  • Providers should create visible communication pathways with VCFSE organisations.
  • Wider health systems should encourage representation of the faith sector in place-based forums.
  • Faith and community groups should seek to work in collaboration.