Living Well Connectors give people time, focusing on ‘what matters to me’ and taking a holistic approach to people’s health and wellbeing. They connect people to community groups and statutory services for practical and emotional support.

Social prescribing works for a wide range of people, including people:
• with one or more long-term conditions 
• who need support with their mental health 
• who are lonely or isolated 
• who have complex social needs which affect their wellbeing 

Lots of things have a negative impact on health and wellbeing, including lack of money, poor education, quality of housing, low self-esteem, isolation, relationship difficulties, and both physical and mental health problems. It is estimated that 20-40% of patients consult their GP for primarily social problems, including social welfare advice. A 10 minute GP consultation isn’t enough to cover multiple health conditions – let alone wider social issues! Social Prescribing can reduce pressure on services – including GPs, social care and A&E and most importantly, it has shown benefits in 3 key areas – mental health outcomes, community wellbeing and social exclusion.

Surgeries

Covers the 5 GP surgeries across the SWAN locality
Beccles, Bungay, Halesworth, Kessingland and Southwold

What our patients say

“Its given me so much strength working with you…”
Ms P (63yr old Cancer patient)

“Thankyou so much for all your support, I love our little chats, and all set to hit the scales tomorrow. I intend to try and get myself out of this depressive rut with your help, I guess little steps are better than none at all. See you next week and once again I really do appreciate your help with everything.”
Mrs B (56yrs Osteoarthritis/depression)

“I feel a bit wanted. People want to be in my company and want to invite me to places. I feel like ME. Not a mum or a wife. Its me…”
Mrs S (56yrs brain surgery/bereavement)

“This was just what I needed… my confidence is on the way up.”
Mrs L(42 yr old pre diabetes/bipolar)

“I feel stronger to not get so low and feel good in myself so I don’t cry all the time. I’m doing things now and seeing people and feeling useful. Sometimes I might lie in bed because I had nothing particular to do and not get up. Now I get out of bed because I have things to do. It gives me a lift.”
Mr P (70yr old bereaved)