Service user perspectives on social prescribing services for mental health in the UK: a systematic review

Abstract

Aim: To thematically synthesise adult service users’ perspectives on how UK-based social prescribing services support them with their mental health management. Methods: Nine databases were systematically searched up to March 2022. Eligible studies were qualitative or mixed methods studies involving participants aged ⩾ 18 years accessing social prescribing services primarily for mental health reasons. Thematic synthesis was applied to qualitative data to create descriptive and analytical themes. Results: 51,965 articles were identified from electronic searches. Six studies were included in the review ( n = 220 participants) with good methodological quality. Five studies utilised a link worker referral model, and one study a direct referral model. Modal reasons for referral were social isolation and/or loneliness ( n = 4 studies). Two analytical themes were formulated from seven descriptive themes: (1) person-centred care was key to delivery and (2) creating an environment for personal change and development. Conclusions: This review provides a synthesis of the qualitative evidence on service users’ experiences of accessing and using social prescribing services to support their mental health management. Adherence to principles of person-centred care and addressing the holistic needs of service users (including devoting attention to the quality of the therapeutic environment) are important for design and delivery of social prescribing services. This will optimise service user satisfaction and other outcomes that matter to them.

Nature-Based Interventions in the UK: A Mixed Methods Study Exploring Green Prescribing for Promoting the Mental Wellbeing of Young Pregnant Women

“…Providers further described the mechanisms of this in the focus groups, particularly in terms of increasing self-esteem and the mindfulness of tasks taking focus away from worries and anxieties. This reflects existing evidence from other studies of social prescribing where it is described as providing a more holistic approach to health and support, by re-building service users' self-confidence, skills and self-reliance [41,42]. A recent systematic review of nature prescriptions (green prescribing) has demonstrated that nature-based interventions have a moderate to large effect on improving depression and anxiety scores [43].…”

The delivery of creative socially prescribed activities for people with serious mental health needs during lockdown: Learning about remote, digital and hybrid delivery

“…Social prescribing (SP) is one way that services link up health service provision with voluntary and community sector provision. The scope, purpose and motivation of SP is not clearly defined or agreed upon [ 4 ], however, in the context of mental health recovery, a focus on person-centred design and delivery and holistic approaches that provide an environment for individualised change and development, were found to be key [ 5 ].…”

Social Prescribing Competence among Community Pharmacists and Pharmacy Students in Norway

“…Social prescription is particularly impactful for vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and children, those with physical/psychological disorders, and excessive health service users, as it offers non-drug-based services that foster social interactions, promote mental health, and enhance physical activity [ 12 , 13 ]. In many cases, social prescriptions complement treatment plans, contributing to mental health prevention and overall well-being, as evidenced in a 2023 meta-analysis demonstrating positive outcomes such as increased self-image and improved mental well-being [ 14 ]. Despite the limited availability of relevant studies in the literature [ 2 , 11 , 12 , 13 ], a meta-analysis [ 14 ] indicated that social prescription coordinators could offer more effective assistance than general practitioners or other health personnel.…”

“…In many cases, social prescriptions complement treatment plans, contributing to mental health prevention and overall well-being, as evidenced in a 2023 meta-analysis demonstrating positive outcomes such as increased self-image and improved mental well-being [ 14 ]. Despite the limited availability of relevant studies in the literature [ 2 , 11 , 12 , 13 ], a meta-analysis [ 14 ] indicated that social prescription coordinators could offer more effective assistance than general practitioners or other health personnel. Coordinators, through in-depth exploration of the needs of patients and extended interaction times, were perceived as attentive and understanding, providing tailored services that precisely addressed the needs of individuals [ 14 ].…”

“…Despite the limited availability of relevant studies in the literature [ 2 , 11 , 12 , 13 ], a meta-analysis [ 14 ] indicated that social prescription coordinators could offer more effective assistance than general practitioners or other health personnel. Coordinators, through in-depth exploration of the needs of patients and extended interaction times, were perceived as attentive and understanding, providing tailored services that precisely addressed the needs of individuals [ 14 ].…”