Offaly Well Connected - Social Prescribing

Social connections are important proactive factors that help to maintain and promote good physical, emotional and mental wellbeing.

Offaly Well Connected- social prescribing project, aims to link people with, and support them to get involved with resources in their community and in the area. It is a collaborative, holistic and a community approach to Health and Wellbeing. This referral service, based in Tullamore, provides one to one consultation that aims to reduce loneliness and social isolation by linking people with resources of support within their local community.

As well as self-referrals it will provide GP’s and other primary care professionals with non-medical options to improve Health & Wellbeing.

This free service funded through the HSE and Social Inclusion Community Activation Programme (SICAP)

Who is it for?

• Anyone over 18
• If you feel isolated, stressed, anxious or lonely
• If you enjoy the company of others and would like to explore options available to you in the community

What are the benefits?

• Learn a new skill or participate in a new activity
• Improve your mental and physical health
• Meet new people
• Receive social support from others
• Increase self-confidence and self-esteem
• Become involved in your community

Examples of support available in the community:

• Men’s groups | Men’s Shed | Women’s Groups
• Health & Fitness Activities | Walking Groups | Park Runs
• Self Help groups | Parenting Groups | Arts & Crafts
• Education & Training Opportunities
• Volunteering opportunities

And Much More….

What happens when someone is referred to the project:

• Meet with Offaly Well Connected – Social Prescribing Coordinator.
• The coordinate will work with you to develop a personal action plan.
• The Coordinator will spend time talking to you about activities that interest you, explore your hobbies and interests, and identify opportunities for involvement within the community.

The Coordinator will work with you to see where you are at, and will support you to attend your chosen activities, as well as linking in with you to discuss how you are getting on, and to check if you are interested in continuing your new activity and/or trying others.

The Social Prescribing Coordinator meets the individual, helps identify their chosen activity, and provides follow up support as necessary.

For further information please contact:

Michelle Quinn

Social Prescribing Coordinator

Offaly Local Development Company

Millennium House,

Main St,

Tullamore,

Co. Offaly

Tel.087 7470562 / 057 9322 850