More Than Medicine: Social Prescribing Day 2025

When we think about health, we often picture doctor’s appointments, prescriptions, and medical interventions. But our wellbeing is about so much more - it’s about the lives we lead, the relationships we nurture, and the sense of belonging we feel.

On Social Prescribing Day 2025, we’re celebrating the transformative power of social prescribing to create healthier, happier lives.

At We Change Lives (WCL), we’ve seen first-hand how social prescribing helps people not just survive but thrive. Throughout our services - supporting older people, individuals living with dementia, disabilities, acquired brain injuries (ABIs), or mental health needs – we witness the magic that happens when people feel connected. Whether it’s through a shared hobby, a friendly conversation, or simply feeling part of something bigger, we know the magic that happens when people are connected.

Two people hold hands across a table, conveying comfort. One hand appears elderly, the other younger. Warm tones, striped clothing visible.

What is Social Prescribing, Really?

Social prescribing might sound like a buzzword, but at its heart, it’s a simple, compassionate concept: connecting people to non-medical support and activities that improve their quality of life. It’s about addressing the causes of ill health – loneliness, inactivity, or stress – and helping people find joy and purpose again.

It could mean joining a local gardening project, attending a creative workshop, or getting support with finances. These might sound like small steps, but they can have life-changing impacts.

At WCL, social prescribing is woven into everything we do. We know that no two people are the same, so our approach is always shaped around the individual, building on their strengths, hobbies, and goals.

Hands painting paper leaves with a brush on a colourful autumn-themed art project. Bright yellow, red, and orange hues dominate.

Why Social Prescribing Matters

The past few years have taught us all the importance of connection. As loneliness, stress, and mental health challenges rise, it’s clear that traditional healthcare can’t address every need.

Social prescribing offers a lifeline, providing meaningful ways for people to reconnect with others, with their passions, and with themselves. It’s about reminding people that they’re valued and giving them the tools to rebuild their confidence and wellbeing.

Stronger connections build stronger communities, where people look out for one another. Pressure is reduced on healthcare services, as people can feel supported earlier, before problems escalate.

This makes social prescribing a win for everyone.

A caregiver holds an elderly man's hand in a care home. Both are seated by a window with a rainy view.

How We Embrace Social Prescribing Every Day

At WCL, social prescribing is at the core of our person-centred care. It’s about creating meaningful opportunities that help the people we support live their best lives, in ways that truly matter to them.

This can look different for everyone. Sometimes it’s:

Singing along or dancing to familiar tunes
Getting creative with arts & crafts, painting, or knitting
Enjoying movie nights or playing games with friends
Coming together for celebrations (big and small)
Sharing special moments with family and loved ones

Moments like these do more than fill the day – they lift spirits, spark memories, strengthen connections, and bring people closer together. By supporting individual passions, we help people live with purpose, independence, and joy.

Social prescribing is often the bridge between support and self-discovery. And every story we see reminds us why this work matters. It’s all about giving people the tools and support to live on their terms.

Three women sitting on a couch, smiling and holding mugs. The setting is a cosy room with a window and grey curtains, creating a warm mood.

Join Us in Building a Healthier Future

Social Prescribing Day is a reminder that we all have a role to play in creating a world where care goes beyond the clinical. Whether it’s reaching out to someone who might feel isolated, starting a career in social care, volunteering your time, or simply starting a conversation, every small act counts.

At We Change Lives, we’re proud to be part of this movement - championing a future where care is compassionate, personal, and rooted in the power of community. 💖🏡

📌 If you're looking for ways to get involved, the National Academy for Social Prescribing has fantastic resources and toolkits to explore.