10 Examples of Social Prescribing

Social prescribing is a way for health professionals, such as GPs (General Practitioners), nurses, and other primary care staff, to refer people to non-medical support in the community. It recognises that a person’s health can be affected by social, emotional, and practical needs, not just medical conditions. This approach focuses on connecting people to local groups, services, and activities that can help improve their wellbeing.

Social prescribing has gained popularity in recent years as part of NHS initiatives to support a more person-centred approach to healthcare. By looking beyond medication, social prescribing can provide solutions that address loneliness, stress, poor physical health, and other factors affecting daily life.

Below are ten examples of social prescribing in action, along with the benefits each can offer.

Community Gardening Projects

Community gardening programmes invite people to work together on shared plots of land, growing vegetables, fruit, flowers, or maintaining green spaces.

Participation involves physical activity, social interaction, and gaining knowledge about growing food. It provides an opportunity for people to spend time outdoors, which can have a positive impact on mental health and mood.

Benefits include:

• Increased physical activity leading to better fitness
• Reduced feelings of isolation by meeting others regularly
• Improved diet through growing fresh produce
• Sense of achievement from seeing plants grow

Many participants report feeling calmer after gardening sessions, and for those experiencing anxiety or depression, the routine and connection to nature encourages a more positive outlook.

Walking Groups

Walking groups bring people together for regular outdoor walks through parks, countryside, or urban areas. They cater to different ability levels, from short gentle strolls to longer, more challenging routes.

Physical activity supports cardiovascular health, improves mobility, and can help maintain a healthy weight. Social contact during walks can address loneliness and create lasting friendships.

Benefits include:

• Better fitness and stamina
• Opportunities to socialise in a relaxed setting
• Mental refreshment from time outdoors
• Motivation through group support

Walking groups are a low-cost option, making them accessible to a wide range of people.

Arts and Crafts Classes

Arts and crafts sessions give people the chance to learn painting, pottery, knitting, or other skills. Creative activities can relieve stress, help with self-expression, and improve self-confidence.

For some, these classes help manage mental health conditions by offering focus and distraction from worries. They also encourage mindfulness, as participants often become absorbed in the creative process.

Benefits include:

• Reduced stress levels through creative expression
• Skill-building leading to increased confidence
• Supportive social environment
• Increased sense of purpose

Arts groups often put on exhibitions, providing recognition for participants’ hard work and creativity.

Singing and Music Groups

Joining a choir or community band can bring joy, connection, and a stronger sense of belonging. Singing has been shown to release endorphins, which can improve mood. Music participation can help with memory, coordination, and focus.

This type of social prescribing often appeals to those who have a passion for music or simply want to try something new.

Benefits include:

• Improved mental wellbeing from group singing
• Greater self-confidence through performances
• Opportunities for regular social contact
• Better breathing and posture techniques

Participants often describe feeling energised and supported by being part of a musical group.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering can provide a sense of contribution and purpose. It might involve helping at a charity shop, supporting a local food bank, mentoring young people, or assisting in community events.

By giving time to help others, individuals often boost their self-esteem, learn new skills, and make meaningful social connections.

Benefits include:

• Development of new skills
• Increased self-confidence
• Stronger social networks
• Feeling of purpose and community involvement

People referred to volunteering often find improved structure in their lives, which supports better mental health.

Exercise Classes and Sports Clubs

Structured exercise sessions such as yoga, Pilates, tai chi, or community-based sports can improve physical and mental health.

Group activity brings motivation and social benefits. Classes can be adapted for older adults or those with long-term health conditions, allowing participation at a comfortable level.

Benefits include:

• Better physical fitness
• Reduced symptoms of stress and anxiety
• Posture, balance, and flexibility improvements
• Opportunity to meet people with similar interests

Exercise releases natural chemicals in the brain that help with mood, making it a useful tool for supporting mental health.

Support Groups for Specific Conditions

Support groups connect people dealing with similar challenges, such as grief, caring responsibilities, or living with chronic illness. They provide a safe space for sharing experiences and coping strategies.

Facilitators, often trained counsellors or volunteers with lived experience, help guide discussions and offer peer support.

Benefits include:

• Reduced feelings of isolation
• Sharing practical advice and coping techniques
• Emotional support from those who understand
• Increased sense of community

People in these groups often say they feel more confident in managing their condition and more hopeful about the future.

Skill Development and Educational Courses

Offering access to training in skills such as cooking, computer use, or languages can help individuals re-enter employment or manage daily life more effectively.

Learning new skills can restore confidence, open possibilities, and improve social contact.

Benefits include:

• Improved confidence through achievement
• Increased opportunities for work or volunteering
• Creation of new friendships
• Lifelong learning and personal growth

For some, gaining digital skills through social prescribing can help them connect with distant friends or make practical use of online services.

Mindfulness and Meditation Sessions

Mindfulness and meditation are practices that focus on paying attention to the present moment and calming the mind. Sessions usually include breathing techniques, guided meditation, and relaxation exercises.

They can help manage stress, anxiety, and low mood, providing tools to support mental resilience.

Benefits include:

• Reduced anxiety and stress levels
• Better concentration and focus
• Improved sleep patterns
• Greater emotional balance

Many people find that practising mindfulness helps them respond more calmly to life’s challenges. Mindfulness should always be carried out by a qualified professional.

Animal-Assisted Therapy and Pet Companionship

Interacting with animals can have a calming effect and reduce loneliness. Projects vary from visiting farms, working with therapy dogs, or helping care for rescue animals.

It can be particularly beneficial for people experiencing anxiety, depression, or the effects of trauma.

Benefits include:

• Comfort and emotional support from animals
• Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression
• Learning responsibility through care tasks
• Increased social contact with others involved

Animal-assisted therapy can stimulate conversation and encourage engagement with the community.

Final Thoughts

Social prescribing offers a practical and personalised way of addressing health and wellbeing needs by linking people to community-based activities and support. The examples provided show that non-medical interventions can have wide-reaching benefits, improving physical health, mental wellbeing, and social connections.

This approach allows individuals to take active steps towards better health through engaging with resources already available in their communities. The rewards are many: better mood, improved confidence, stronger community ties, and an overall sense of fulfilment. Social prescribing bridges the gap between healthcare and everyday life, giving people real tools and opportunities to live healthier and more connected lives.