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Social Prescribing Spring Winter 2025
Social Prescribing Referrals Snapshot Q3 2025
Between July and September 2025, our team received 703 referrals. The most common reasons were:
- Housing (184 referrals) and homelessness support (32 referrals)
- Financial advice (70 referrals) and benefits advice (63 referrals)
- Social isolation and loneliness (63 referrals)
- Mental Health signposting/practical support (100 referrals)
- Support for unpaid carers (24 referrals) and those with care needs (85 referrals)
These figures highlight the continued importance of social prescribing in tackling the wider social factors that influence health and wellbeing.
Transition Information Event
Our social prescribers attended Evelina London’s transitions event on 7th October at Lambeth Town Hall, which was tailored for parents in Lambeth and Southwark supporting a child aged 16+ with learning disabilities as they move from children’s to adult services.
The event brought together neighbourhood professionals from health, social care, education, and employment, offering valuable information and connections to help families navigate this important transition with confidence. It was well attended, and our social prescribers spoke to many parents about the support available in their local neighbourhood, highlighting the role social prescribing plays in linking families to practical resources, services, and networks that promote long-term wellbeing.
One of the key services highlighted was the new Southwark Disability Hub, which is an inclusive space where disabled people can access tailored information, guidance, and support. The hub encourages community participation by connecting individuals with local groups, activities, and opportunities to get involved.
Learn more about the Southwark Disability Hub
Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month
November marked Men’s Health and Mental Health Awareness Month - aligning with the Movember campaign and International Men’s Day, drawing attention to issues like prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and the high rates of suicide among men. This was a chance to highlight the unique challenges men face, encourage open conversations, and help break the stigma around seeking support for physical and mental wellbeing.
To mark the month, Jermaine Anin (Health & Wellbeing Coach) and Terry-King Emmanuel (Housing Specialist Social Prescriber) are sharing their top tips for looking after your mentalwellbeing.
Terry-King’s Mental Wellbeing Tip:
“For me, an early start makes a big difference. I take time in the morning to think, meditate, and practice mindfulness before the world is awake. Having that quiet space helps me feel centered and ready for the day ahead. I’d really encourage anyone to try carving out even a few quiet minutes in the morning - it can set a calm and positive tone for the rest of the day. True change begins not when we force ourselves to start, but when we give ourselves permission to pause. I believe that small pauses, those moments of stillness, are what give us the strength and clarity to grow over time. ”
Jermaine’s Mental Wellbeing Tip:
“I find that staying connected with others really boosts my mood. Talking to friends or family members, even for just a few minutes, helps me feel supported and reminds me that I’m not alone when life feels overwhelming. I also think it’s important to make time for hobbies and activities you genuinely enjoy. Whether it’s gaming, reading, going to festivals or listening to music, doing something that brings joy helps create balance and reduces stress.”
Spotlight on Southwark Neighbourhood Event
We know that walking benefits health and wellbeing by releasing endorphins, reducing stress hormones like cortisol, and improving mood and energy levels. Time and Talents, a community organisation in Southwark, run a walking and photography group for men aged 55+. The walks take place on Wednesdays from 10.30am to 1.30pm and leave from The Old Mortuary in Rotherhithe.
For more information, contact Time & Talents on 020 7231 7845.
Wellbeing as the Seasons Change
As the days grow shorter and the weather gets colder, it's natural to feel a shift in our mood and energy too. Our health and wellbeing coaches share practical tips to help you manage the transition as we move through winter.
Samantha Mohamed-Ali
“As the days get shorter, I find it grounding to keep a consistent movement routine. Even if it’s just a brisk walk during daylight hours. On rainy days when it’s harder to get outside, I’ll do a quick 10-minute workout at home.
Keeping active in this way helps stabilise my energy and lift my mood as we move through the seasonal shift. ”
Tanisha Appleton
“As the temperature begins to drop in autumn, the air can become less humid both indoors and outdoors - particularly once we start to switch on the heating again. This can sometimes lead to tickly throats, dry coughs, and also dry out our skin.
My tip - ensure that you're staying hydrated. Water is of course great, but herbal teas also count towards hydration. Teas with ingredients such as Ginger, Turmeric and lemon are great for this time of year as they have natural immune boosting properties also. Win win!”
Kamrun Haleem
“In autumn, I prioritise physical activity. With dark nights, we might feel the urge to stay indoors, but I always go for an after-dinner walk, come what may! It could be a walk around the block, a stroll along the high street, or a wander through the park. It gives me time to reflect and provides a second wind to get final things done before I can think about retiring for the day. ”
Black History Month
October was Black History Month in the UK, a time to reflect on the achievements and cultural heritage of Black communities. It was also a moment to reflect on the health inequalities that persist, and the importance of inclusive, person-centred care.
Social prescribing plays a vital role in bridging health inequalities by linking individuals to neighbourhood community support and culturally relevant services. It helps address the wider determinants of health, by recognising that health is shaped by connection, identity, and inclusion. Through shared celebration, events across Southwark created inclusive spaces where people could connect and express themselves.
Highlights from Southwark’s Neighbourhood Black History Month Celebrations
- Copleston Centre hosted a celebration event filled with music, dancing, and food; uniting local residents.
- Southwark Archives created displays at Brandon Library and Blue Anchor Library, showcasing the stories of Black heritage communities who have helped shape Southwark’s history.
- Pecan Women’s Service offered a dynamic drumming workshop at Southwark Women’s Hub. The workshop brought women together in celebration of Brazilian and Afro-Brazilian roots music.
- Pecan also hosted a women’s only Collaborative Talk with local historian Sabera Jaffers, exploring the theme “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.” The event created space for reflection and empowerment
For further updates on services in Southwark you can follow our team on social media:
Published: Dec 11, 2025