Social prescribing for 16 - 25 year olds

Healthwatch Shropshire undertook engagement with young people aged 16 – 25 to find out what they thought of social prescribing as plans were in place to extend this service to this age group.  They spoke to 70 young people and 5 professionals.

Around half of the young people were already involved in a group, activity or club.  Most people felt that the social aspect of the activity was quite or very important to them.  Barriers to involvement included lack of time, transport, difficulties meeting people for the first time, lack of interest and cost.

Focus group participants highlighted the timing of activities affecting whether or not they would attend – particularly those in full time education or working in hospitality.

When asked to suggest groups or activities that could help with social isolation and stress, suggestions included community gardens, mindfulness classes and yoga. Focus group participants told us they would be interested in groups that help with money/housing problems, life skills, mental health, weight management and substance misuse.

The report outlines the difficulties people face when attending a group or activity for the first time, describing the need for ‘handholding’ at first. Focus group participants identified some things that might help, including meeting the group or group leader beforehand, e.g. on-line, or being able to take someone else, like a friend, along.

When discussing the Social Prescriber role, several suggestions were made for the name of the role but it was clear that it was most important for them to know what Social Prescribing is. They wanted information about what to expect, their options and outcomes. We heard from some people who felt let down by their previous experiences of the NHS which meant they expected long waiting lists, a lack of flexibility and no follow-up.

All three GPs thought Social Prescribing would be better situated in community hubs rather than NHS settings, partly to encourage people not to expect medical solutions to their problems. Professionals showed that they had a good understanding of the motivations of young people to take part in groups/activities, the needs of this age group and some of the barriers they face in accessing Social Prescribing(e.g. transport, cost, confidence). The professionals did not mention the issue of ‘lack of time’ that the young people described.

The report contains seven recommendations about making social prescribing accessible to 16 – 25 year olds.