About
The Community Link Worker service works within 62 selected GP surgeries across Highland, supporting adults over the age of 18 to improve health outcomes for people experiencing stressors in their lives due to social problems.
The service uses a social prescribing model, which is a non-medical approach to improving health and wellbeing. It connects people with community services, groups and activities that provide the support people need, which could include counselling, financial advice, social groups, physical activity programmes, befriending services, and more.
This could people who face multiple and complex challenges, including mental health, social isolation, loneliness, poor housing conditions, unhealthy relationships, poor physical health, discrimination, and more.
Referrals
Referrals are received from the GP to a Community Link Worker when there might be a concern caused by social factors, rather than a medical problem.
Support
The service is person-centred in its approach, getting to know the person referred by understanding their interests and needs. Up to eight sessions are offered with a plan of action to help feel a sense of achievement while increasing confidence to reach goals and overcome barriers.
It’s important for Community Link Workers to build a relationship and shape support around the person supported. Progress is discussed after each meeting, focusing on a review of goals, outcomes and priorities. From there, people are socially prescribed to relevant services.
Contact
Contact the Community Link Worker Service to find out more: