People with severe mental illnesses (including bipolar disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder) have poorer health outcomes than the general population. The reasons for this are complex but highlight that alternative models of disease prevention are required. Social prescribing offers a holistic approach to health by linking patients in primary care to community groups and social activities.

Through a new research study, researchers at University College London are aiming to show what impact social prescribing has for people with severe mental illnesses and how these effects occur. They also want to understand how to ensure clear, efficient referral routes so that people do not face any disadvantage in accessing schemes if they wish to do so.

To inform this research, researchers want to speak with UK-based:

• Social prescribing link workers who have experience of working with individuals with severe mental illnesses, but also link workers who do not have this experience or who have sent back referrals to the referrer.
• Anyone who refers people to the link workers (e.g. GPs, healthcare professionals).
• Anyone delivering community activities that could be referred into by social prescribers (e.g. people working in organisations offering arts, nature, gardening, sports, volunteering opportunities).
• People with lived experience of severe mental illnesses.
• Family and friends who support people living with severe mental illnesses.

Taking part will involve a 30-45 minute interview and UCL will offer you a £10 online gift voucher to thank you for your contribution.

To express your interest or learn more, please contact Alexandra Burton on a.burton@ucl.ac.uk or 0207 679 9031.