What is social prescribing for persistent physical symptoms?

Social prescribing links people to support in their community. It aims to help people to boost their health and wellbeing.

Social prescribing is commonly available to people through their GP practice. This project is different because it specifically helps people with persistent physical symptoms (PPS). This includes things like chronic pain (e.g. fibromyalgia), chronic fatigue and irritable bowel syndrome.

We offer non-medical support, that complements any medical support you are getting. We aim to improve your quality of life by helping you to lead a healthier life and manage your condition. We will focus on what matters to you and enabling you to make positive choices.

How does it work?

We offer support to help you to set and achieve personal goals and to manage your symptoms.

You will work with a specialist link worker, a trained professional who is there to help you with what matters to you. They will offer regular meetings and phone calls. To be successful, you will need to meet with us and be prepared to work with us to set and achieve your goals.

Is it for me?

If you have persistent physical symptoms, you want to work towards better health and wellbeing and would like support to do this, our service may be for you.

What can a link worker support me with?

A specialist link worker can support you to manage your persistent symptoms, working with you to create a plan and implement support. We can help with:

• Getting involved in local groups and activities
• Developing positive relationships
• Accessing specialist services and support
• Healthy eating and cooking
• Getting more active
• Getting support around benefits and welfare rights.

Where can I find out more?

You need to be eligible for the service to be referred. To check if you're eligible please approach your GP, scan the QR code or visit our website: Persistent Physical Symptoms - Ways to Wellness.

You can be referred to the service by your GP or another member of staff at your GP practice.

You can also contact Ways to Wellness:
Phone: 0191 816 3540
Email: info@waystowellness.org.uk