The experiences and perceptions of social prescribing: A qualitative study with people with long-term conditions, link workers and healthcare practitioners

ObjectiveTo explore the experiences and perceptions of key stakeholders regarding social prescribing interventions.DesignQualitative study incorporating focus groups and semi-structured interviews. Data was analysed thematically to identify themes and sub-themes. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research was used.SettingUrban communities in The Republic of Ireland.ParticipantsParticipants included people with long-term conditions (n = 12), link workers (n = 9), healthcare practitioners (n = 17), and community service representatives (n = 6).InterventionSocial prescribing interventions using community link workersMain measuresFace-to-face focus groups were conducted with individuals with long-term conditions and online focus groups with link workers, healthcare practitioners, and community service representatives. Online semi-structured interviews were conducted with General practitioner.ResultsTranscripts were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, using an inductive approach to develop codes, categories and themes. One overarching theme, three themes and six sub-themes were identified. The overarching theme 'Between Promise and Precarity' reflected the opportunities for growth, connection and sustainability alongside the challenges of implementing social prescribing. Theme 1 Promise had one sub-theme of empowerment and growth. Theme 2 was Fragmentation with two sub-themes of awareness and understanding. Theme 3 was Precarity with three sub-themes of workforce and resource insecurity, information gaps and evaluation shortfalls.ConclusionSocial prescribing has the potential to improve health and well-being by empowering individuals to grow through social connection. However, poor stakeholder understanding and collaboration coupled with unclear link worker roles and resource constraints threaten its sustainability. Streamlined workflows, clear guidelines and robust stakeholder partnerships are required to ensure social prescribing succeeds.