Social Prescription

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The rationale is that by addressing what these social determinants of health are, is that it can help improve health outcomes for individuals. We looked at the evidence going right back over the last 30 to 40 years up until last year. It does feel like this would work, you know, getting people active and involved in something in their community and engaging with others. To me, it makes sense. But of course, medicine and the fact that this is prescribed, it does need to be evidence based.

A new trial is exploring if prescriptions of surfing, gardening and dance classes can reduce anxiety and depression in people aged 11 to 18. NHS mental health trusts in 10 parts of England will use a range of sports, arts and outdoor activities with 600 young people to see if it can stop conditions worsening while the sufferers are on waiting lists for care. This kind of support is known as ‘social prescribing’, allowing health professionals to refer patients to a range of community groups and organisations. But while social prescribing programmes are being rolled out around the world, a recent review has found scant evidence of their effectiveness. Madeleine Finlay speaks to Prof Susan Smith about the ideas behind social prescribing, its potential benefits for those with complex issues, and why more studies are urgently needed. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod