About this role
Job summary
We have an exciting opportunity available for a Social Prescribing Link Worker to join us to cover maternity leave.
Our Social Prescribers support individuals to take greater control of their own health in a way that makes sense to them and enables them to feel connected and supported to facilitate sustainable change. We recognise that community-centred ways of working can be effective in improving the health and wellbeing of individuals and our team have a good track-record of providing this.
Social Prescribers support medical and non-medical professionals with an option to refer patients to a range of local, non-clinical services when their health can no longer be improved through traditional medical interventions. Social prescribing schemes can involve a variety of activities which are typically provided by Voluntary and Community Sector Organisations (VCSE) in locations that feel comfortable for the individual, i.e., activities that support feelings of contribution and connection with others.
Please be aware that our organisation does not hold a visa sponsor licence, so we are unable to accept applications from those requiring visa sponsorship to work in the UK.
Due to the nature of the role, frequent travel between locations is essential. Applicants must be able to meet the travel requirements of the post. A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle are normally required.
Interviews will be held on 17th and 19th November 2026.
Main duties of the job
We are looking for a caring, empathetic and sensitive individual to help people of all ages, to improve their health and wellbeing. To do this you will have excellent listening skills and use your knowledge and experience to help support people to engage and identify their own support methods. This will involve working in a multi-disciplinary way with GP Practices to build networks with voluntary sector organisations, local authorities and other partners. You will need to be proactive to identify and approach these organisations to develop options for our patients.
You will be a confident individual who is comfortable speaking and meeting people from a range of backgrounds. You will be skilled at managing a caseload, good at seeking support and advice when necessary, and be able to work autonomously.
About us
The North West Leicestershire GP Federation consists of 12 GP Practices covering 116,000 patients. The GP Federation operates the North West Leicestershire Primary Care Network.
At North West Leicestershire our team of Social Prescribing Link Workers support the development of the team and provide additional capacity as the service grows. You will primarily support in any of our 12 practices as needed.
If you are passionate about supporting people and proactive to help find solutions, then please do consider joining our friendly team.
Job description Job responsibilities
Receiving and actioning referrals from a wide range of agencies, working closely with 12 GP practices within North West Leicestershire primary care network (PCNs), pharmacies, multi-disciplinary teams, hospital discharge teams, allied health professionals, fire service, police, job centres, social care services, housing associations, and voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations (list not exhaustive).
Providing personalised support to individuals, their families and carers to enable them to take control of their wellbeing, live independently and improve their health outcomes. Develop trusting relationships by giving people time and focus on what matters to them. Taking a holistic approach, based on the person's priorities and the wider determinants of health. To co-produce a personalised support plan to improve health and wellbeing and to introduce or reconnect people to community groups and statutory services. It is vital that the Social Prescribing Link Worker has a strong awareness and understanding of when it is appropriate or necessary to refer people back to other health professionals or agencies.
To increase the strengths and capacities of local communities, and enable local VCSE organisations and community groups to receive social prescribing referrals. To ensure patients are supported, have basic safeguarding processes for vulnerable individuals and provide opportunities for the person to develop friendships, a sense of belonging, and build knowledge, skills and confidence.
Work together with all local partners to collectively ensure that local VCSE organisations and community groups are sustainable and that community assets are nurtured, by making them aware of small grants or micro-commissioning if available, including providing support to set up new community groups and services, where gaps are identified in local provision.
Person Specification
Experience Essential
Experience of working in a similar role or within health, education, social care, or community settings Experience working with individuals and families experiencing complex social, emotional or practical challenges Experience of multi-agency working and coordinating services from multiple providers Experience of delivering one-to-one support
Desirable
Experience of working in liaison capacity with social care and education Experience of seeing patients and carers in a practice-based setting, school, or in their own home
Other Essential
Full UK driving licence Meet DBS reference standards Willingness to work flexible hours when required to meet work demands
Qualifications Essential
GCSE Grade C or above in Maths and English, or equivalent qualification.
Desirable
Qualification in health, social care, or child development Formal safeguarding qualification for both adults and children Additional training in motivational interviewing, coaching, behaviour change
Knowledge Essential
Knowledge of the needs of vulnerable adults and children, safeguarding, and the relevant legislation and guidance Knowledge of local health, education, and social care provision Knowledge of public health issues affecting both adults and children
Desirable
Understanding of health, education, and social care terminology Understanding of the role and function of GP Federations and Primary Care Networks Knowledge and understanding of GP Practices and school-based health services Knowledge of funding systems in social care Understanding of behaviour change models, motivational interviewing
Skills Essential
A working knowledge of Microsoft Office Applications, including Outlook, Teams, Word & Excel Ability to manage and prioritise a caseload across different age groups Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to meet deadlines and complete tasks effectively. Ability to work flexibly and enthusiastically within a team or on own initiative Ability to build trusting relationships with individuals, families, carers, and professionals Good communication skills, both written and verbal Ability to provide person-centred support to individuals, their families and carers Ability to listen and empathise with people in a non-judgmental way Highly motivated and committed to improving outcomes for individuals and families. Able to maintain effective working relationships and promote collaborative working across local sectors Undertake additional training relevant to the role
Desirable
Ability to communicate difficult messages to patients, and families Experience of using clinical systems such as SystmOne / EMIS Web
Disclosure and Barring Service Check This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer details Employer name North West Leicestershire GP Federation
Address 67 North Street
Whitwick
Coalville
Leicestershire
LE67 5HX
United Kingdom
Employer's website http://www.nwleicestershiregpfed.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)