At a Glance
- Tasks: Support patients with non-medical needs and connect them to community services.
- Company: Join a compassionate Primary Care Network in West Norfolk.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, hybrid working, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal growth and to tackle health inequalities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives and improve community health.
- Qualifications: Experience in healthcare or community support and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
We are looking for a compassionate, motivated, and person-centred Social Prescriber to join our Primary Care Network team. The successful candidate will work closely with GP practices and multidisciplinary teams to support patients with a wide range of non-medical needs that may be impacting their health and wellbeing. This includes areas such as social isolation, mental wellbeing, housing, finances, employment, lifestyle support, and access to community services.
The role involves providing personalised support to patients, empowering them to take greater control of their health and wellbeing, and connecting them with appropriate local groups, services, and community organisations. The Social Prescriber will work collaboratively across the 7 sites within our PCN, helping to reduce health inequalities and improve patient outcomes through a holistic and preventative approach to care.
Fixed term contract - 1 year with possibility of extension pending contract review. Hours per week: 15 hours (Mon 9-2pm, Wed 9-2pm, third working day negotiable or would consider condensed 2 day working week). Hybrid role - Remote working part of this role as well as in practice/visits/office time. Role requires travel across all of Swaffham and Downham Market.
Main duties of the job:
- Provide person-centred support to patients referred into the Social Prescribing service.
- Support patients to access community groups, voluntary organisations, and local support services.
- A mix of telephone, face-to-face and home visits are expected as part of this position.
- Help patients improve their health, wellbeing, independence, and social connectedness.
- Build positive working relationships with GP practices, healthcare professionals, and community partners.
- Maintain accurate and timely patient records in line with NHS standards and confidentiality requirements.
- Signpost patients to appropriate services and wellbeing support where needed.
- Support patients who may be socially isolated, vulnerable, or experiencing complex life challenges.
- Promote self-care, resilience, and preventative health approaches.
- Undertake any other reasonable duties within the scope of the role as requested by management to support the effective delivery of PCN services.
About us:
Based in West Norfolk, our PCN serves over 55,000 patients across our seven member Practices of; Manor Farm Medical Practice, Plowright Surgery, Campingland Surgery, Litcham Health Centre, Howdale Surgery, the Hollies Surgery and Bridge Street Surgery. We pride ourselves on offering our patients the best care possible, demonstrating innovation, clinical excellence and working collaboratively with our allied health care professionals across the network.
Job responsibilities:
- Excellent communication and listening skills.
- Compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgemental approach.
- Ability to build trusting relationships with patients from diverse backgrounds.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team.
- Good IT and administrative skills.
- Understanding of confidentiality and safeguarding principles.
- The role requires travel across multiple sites and community locations.
- Previous experience within healthcare, social care, wellbeing, community support, or the voluntary sector.
- Knowledge of local community services and support networks.
- Experience supporting vulnerable individuals or people with complex needs.
- Understanding of social determinants of health.
- NHS or Primary Care experience.
- Familiarity with clinical systems such as SystmOne/EMIS.
Person Specification:
The role requires travel across multiple sites and community locations therefore access to own vehicle is essential.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check:
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
A Social Prescribing Link Worker in Norfolk employer: Swaffham & Downham Primary Care Network
Join our dedicated team in West Norfolk as a Social Prescribing Link Worker, where you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of over 55,000 patients. We foster a supportive and collaborative work culture that values compassion and innovation, offering flexible working hours and hybrid arrangements to promote work-life balance. With a focus on professional development and community engagement, this role provides a unique chance to grow within a multidisciplinary team while addressing health inequalities and enhancing patient wellbeing.
Contact Detail:
Swaffham & Downham Primary Care Network Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land A Social Prescribing Link Worker in Norfolk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the healthcare and community sectors. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet people who might know about job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get an interview, be ready to share specific examples of how you've helped individuals in similar roles. Use stories that highlight your compassionate approach and ability to connect with diverse patients.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a role that excites you, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Apply through our website and follow up with a friendly email to express your enthusiasm. It shows initiative and can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay flexible! Since this role involves travel and hybrid working, be open to discussing your availability and how you can adapt to the needs of the team. Highlighting your willingness to work across different sites can make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace A Social Prescribing Link Worker in Norfolk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Compassion:As a Social Prescribing Link Worker, empathy is key! Make sure your application reflects your compassionate nature. Share experiences where you've supported others, especially in challenging situations.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Highlight Your Community Knowledge:Since this role involves connecting patients with local services, showcase your knowledge of community resources. Mention any previous experience working with local organisations or understanding social determinants of health.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Swaffham & Downham Primary Care Network
✨Know Your Community Resources
Familiarise yourself with local community services and support networks before the interview. Being able to discuss specific organisations and how they can help patients will show your understanding of the role and your commitment to supporting those in need.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
Prepare examples that highlight your compassionate and empathetic approach. Think of situations where you’ve successfully built trusting relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds, as this is crucial for a Social Prescriber.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You’ll need to convey complex information simply, so consider role-playing common scenarios with a friend to refine your communication style.
✨Highlight Your Organisational Skills
Be ready to discuss how you manage your time and organise your workload, especially when working across multiple sites. Share specific strategies or tools you use to stay on top of your responsibilities, as this will reassure them of your ability to handle the demands of the role.
