Social Prescribing for Young People

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Social prescribing

What is social prescribing?

Think of social prescribing as support that doesn’t come in a pill or bottle.

Instead, it’s about connecting you to activities, groups, and community services that actually make a difference to your mental health, physical wellbeing, and everyday life.

It could mean joining a sports session, trying out a creative class, volunteering, or even just getting involved in your community. The best bit? It’s free, confidential, and all about what works for you.

What does a social prescriber do?

Why it’s good for you

Social prescribing doesn’t just stick a plaster over problems — it helps tackle the real stuff that might be affecting how you feel, like stress, loneliness, or challenges in day-to-day life.

Improve your confidence and self-esteem
Meet other people
Feel less lonely and alone
Find support with housing, education and employment
Get help early so mental health issues don’t get worse
Enjoy worthwhile activities while waiting for therapy
Get support if you’re not eligible for other mental health services

How it works

Here’s what usually happens:

Step one

A teacher, health professional, or community worker thinks social prescribing could help you.

Step two

You get referred to a social prescribing link worker (sometimes called a social prescriber).

Step three

Together, you create a personalised wellbeing plan based on your goals, interests, and needs.

What you can access

Depending on what you need, you might get connected to things like:

Sports and fitness sessions
Creative and arts activities
Youth groups where your voice matters
Support with housing, training, or finding work
Wellbeing workshops and peer support groups

It’s totally flexible and designed around what matters most to you.

Here’s how social prescribing is making a difference for young people in Greater Manchester

A young person was referred to Be Well 16UP, a social prescribing service for young people for support to improve their physical health and mental wellbeing.

They set achievable goals—moving from nightly takeaways to healthier meals and adding regular walks into their routine. These small lifestyle changes helped them feel healthier, more motivated, and more confident.

With support from their 16UP coach, they were introduced to other opportunities in the community. This included YMCA personal training sessions, Greater Manchester Youth Network activities, and creative groups at 42nd Street. Getting involved in these programmes gave them the chance to meet other young people, try new things, and continue building confidence.

“The service boosted my confidence—I’m more confident cooking, on the phone, and meeting new people. I now have something to look forward to in my week.”

Where it’s available

Right now, social prescribing for young people is available in:
Oldham, Bolton, Wigan, Rochdale, Manchester, Tameside, and Trafford.

Want to get involved?

If you think this could help you or someone you know, email c.leonhardsen@nhs.net

If you’re looking for extra ways to support your child’s health and wellbeing, social prescribing could help. From clubs and activities to emotional support, it’s about connecting your child with the right services outside of traditional healthcare.

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