Since the start of February 2025, New Forest PCN is using Joy to help deliver Social Prescribing to our patients. This web-based platform enables us to better work as a team across our multiple practices, to interact with you and to signpost you to various services and activities available both locally and online. 

You can self-refer using the link below but also find a link to a national map (marketplace) which we are gradually adding more local services to. 

When completing the self-referral form, please enter your NHS number if you know it. If you don’t, you may leave this field blank.

Social Prescribing:

• Patient-Centred Approach: Focuses on the ethos of "what matters to me", placing individuals at the heart of their own non-clinical care.

• Goal: Supports people to feel better and improve wellbeing through personal choice and decision-making.

• Non-Medical Support: Offers alternatives to medication by connecting individuals to community-based resources and groups.

• Combats Isolation: Aims to reduce loneliness and social isolation through meaningful engagement and participation.

How It Works:

• Initial Discussion: You’ll have a conversation with a member of the team to explore what’s important to you.

• Personalised Plan: Together, you’ll create a plan to help achieve your goals using local support and services.

• Signposting: You may be connected to services such as:

  • Healthy lifestyle & physical activity (nutrition, diet, exercise – all levels welcome)

  • Arts, music, outdoor activities, and creativity

  • Befriending, counselling, and support groups

  • Housing, benefits, and financial advice

  • Employment, training, and volunteering opportunities

  • Education and lifelong learning

  • Community involvement

  • Access to specialist services and support

Ongoing Support:

• The social prescribing team will support you throughout your journey.

• Follow-up appointments are available to ensure progress and satisfaction with the process.

Team PCN