GPS Associate - Social Prescriber in London

Location: National (various locations available across the UK)

Directorate: Primary Care (NHS England & the devolved nations)

Reports to: GPS Flexible Workforce Office (FWO)

Job summary

Are you passionate about empowering individuals and transforming community health? We are seeking dedicated and skilled social prescribers to join our team. This critical role involves working directly with patients to connect them with local services and support that address social, emotional, and practical needs. As a social prescriber, you will play a pivotal role in enhancing patient well‐being and promoting holistic care by addressing the broader social determinants of health. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patient outcomes and community health, working within a dynamic and supportive primary care environment.

Key responsibilities

• Patient support and engagement.
• Conduct in‐depth consultations with patients to understand their social, emotional, and practical needs.
• Develop personalised care plans that link patients with appropriate community resources and services, such as housing support, financial advice, and social activities.
• Resource navigation.
• Provide information and guidance on accessing community services, local support groups, and voluntary organisations.
• Assist patients in navigating complex systems to obtain the support they need, including completing forms and applications.
• Holistic care coordination.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals, including GPs, nurses, and mental health specialists, to ensure integrated care plans that address both clinical and non‐clinical needs.
• Act as a liaison between patients and community services, ensuring effective communication and coordination.
• Community development.
• Identify gaps in community services and work with local organisations to develop and enhance support networks.
• Promote and facilitate community engagement initiatives to improve access to services and support for underserved populations.
• Advocacy and empowerment.
• Advocate on behalf of patients to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are addressed.
• Empower patients to take control of their own health and well‐being through education and support.
• Record keeping and reporting.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of patient interactions, referrals, and outcomes.
• Report on service utilisation, patient progress, and the impact of social prescribing initiatives.
• Engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices in social prescribing and community support.
• Participate in training and development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.

Person specification

• Qualifications and experience
• Relevant qualification in social care, community development, or a related field (e.g., NVQ level 4 in health and social care, degree in social work).
• Training or certification in social prescribing or care coordination is desirable.
• Experience working in a community‐based role, social care, or health and social services setting.
• Proven track record of working with diverse patient populations and addressing social determinants of health.

Skills and competencies

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust with patients from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritise effectively.
• Proficiency in using electronic health record systems and other relevant software for documentation and reporting.

Knowledge

• In‐depth understanding of social prescribing, including the principles and practices of connecting patients with community resources and support.
• Comprehensive knowledge of local and national community services, support networks, and social care provisions.
• Awareness of the social determinants of health and strategies for addressing health inequalities.
• Familiarity with NHS policies and guidelines relevant to social prescribing and patient care.

Personal attributes

• Compassionate and empathetic approach to patient care, with a commitment to improving quality of life for individuals and communities.
• Strong advocacy skills, with a passion for supporting patients and ensuring equitable access to resources.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, demonstrating initiative and adaptability.
• Dedication to continuous professional development and lifelong learning.

Make a real difference in the health and well‐being of communities. Opportunities for professional development and career progression. Various work arrangements available to suit your lifestyle. Join a supportive and dynamic team dedicated to high‐quality patient care.

Special requirements

• Flexible working hours.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings or weekends, to meet patient needs.
• Driving requirements.
• A full driving licence and access to a vehicle may be necessary for conducting home visits or travelling between practice sites.

Application process

If you are driven by a passion for community health and eager to make a significant difference through social prescribing, we invite you to apply. Submit your application through our website to join a forward‐thinking team dedicated to holistic patient care and community well‐being. We offer opportunities across various locations nationwide, with options for remote, hybrid, and in‐person work arrangements. This role provides a platform for significant contributions to patient care and professional growth within a supportive and innovative primary healthcare environment.