The Sunderland PCN Social Prescribing Service is a well-established and integral part of Primary Care Network (PCN) support since 2020, led by the Sunderland GP Alliance. Originally developed under the Network Contract Direct Enhanced Service (DES), this service continues to evolve and grow, with dedicated teams embedded within Primary Care Networks (PCNs) across the city.

Primary Care Networks (PCNs)

The programme operates independently and works with local services across Sunderland to deliver a single, integrated social prescribing model that supports seamless care across organisational boundaries.

Social Prescribing and the NHS Long Term Plan

Social prescribing is a key element of the NHS Long Term Plan, which sets out a 10-year vision to improve health and care across England. The plan emphasises personalised, community-based care that addresses the wider determinants of health such as social isolation, mental health, housing, and employment.

The NHS recognises that healthcare extends beyond clinical treatment and that linking patients to community support can reduce pressure on health services, improve wellbeing, and promote prevention. Sunderland’s Social Prescribing Service aligns directly with this vision by embedding Link Workers in PCNs, supporting people to take control of their health through non-clinical interventions tailored to ‘what matters to me.’

What is Social Prescribing?

Social prescribing is a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. It allows healthcare professionals and community services in Sunderland to refer people to non-clinical services that support their social, emotional, and practical needs.

Not everything can be solved with medicine
Sometimes, what people need most is someone to talk to – and a plan to move forward.