Following the successful launch of a Social Prescribing pilot in Tewkesbury in April 2015, a second pilot got underway in Newent and Staunton in September.

The schemes are being provided in partnership with the Tewkesbury Borough and Forest of Dean District Councils respectively and signpost people to support from local organisations and groups.

Social prescribing can help people to live healthier lives, support people with caring responsibilities, mental health and wellbeing issues and reduce social isolation.

The pilot in Tewkesbury has got off to a good start with uptake steady and gradually increasing. The pilots will be assessed by reviewing the wellbeing of patients before and after access to the service.