Natalie Dunn, Team Leader, and Todd Micklethwaite, Social Prescribing Advisor, will update the Councillors with regard to the ‘Live Well – My Best Life Barnsley’ initiative
Minutes:
Natalie Dunn, Team Leader, and Todd Micklethwaite, Social Prescribing Advisor, delivered a presentation regarding the ‘My Best Life’ initiative, which is a new social prescribing service for Barnsley, funded by NHS Barnsley Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).
It was explained that the six advisors and their manager visit people in their own homes to connect them with local non-medical support to improve mental and physical wellbeing through promoting a healthier lifestyle and improving their home environment. Home health checks are carried out and smoke and carbon monoxide alarms fitted when necessary. Advisors can identify safeguarding concerns and other problems such as social isolation, hoarding, and anxiety and depression.
Examples of successful case studies were provided. It was highlighted that there is no ‘typical’ customer and the service deals with people across the whole spectrum of need, from age 18 with no upper limit. Referrals are made by any healthcare professional, including GPs and social workers. Sometimes an immediate response is possible. Confidentiality is paramount and the GP must always obtain consent from the customer before sharing information. There is a need to encourage GPs to promote the service widely.
A Member raised concern regarding possible duplication with other services such as the Fire Service. Reassurance was given that the service works closely with other organisations such as the Fire Service, RVS and Age UK, identifying gaps in service and feeding back to the CCG
RESOLVED that Natalie and Todd be thanked for their attendance and contribution and that Members help to promote the service widely.