Job Summary
Brackley and Towcester PCN are seeking a passionate and dedicated Social Prescribing Link Worker to join our Primary Care Network team. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of our patients by connecting them with community-based support and services that address their wider health and wellbeing needs. For this role you would be working across our 4 member practices in Brackley and Towcester.
Preferred Specialisation: Experience working with young people and families is highly desirable, as this role will have a particular focus on supporting younger patients within our community.
This position is funded through the NHS Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS) and forms part of our commitment to delivering personalised care across the network.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide one-to-one support to patients referred from GP practices within the PCN
* Conduct holistic assessments to understand patients' needs, strengths, and goals
* Connect patients to appropriate community-based activities, groups, and services
* Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams including GPs, practice nurses, and other healthcare professionals
* Build and maintain relationships with local voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations
* Support patients to develop confidence and self-management skills
* Maintain accurate records and contribute to evaluation and monitoring activities
* Participate in community engagement and development activities
* Specialist focus: Provide tailored support for young people aged 16-25, understanding their unique challenges and community needs
ARRS Role Requirements
Essential Training Requirements
All Social Prescribing Link Workers must complete accredited training to ensure they have the knowledge, skills and expertise to carry out their role safely and effectively:
Mandatory Training:
* NHS England online learning programme (mandatory completion)
* Social Prescribing Link Worker Level 4 Certificate (or equivalent accredited qualification)
* Personalised Care Core Curriculum training modules
* Safeguarding training (Adults and Children appropriate to role)
* Information Governance training
* Equality, Diversity and Inclusion training
Professional Development:
* Enrolled in, undertaking or qualified in relevant accredited training programme
* Access to continuous professional development opportunities
* Regular supervision and peer support networks
* Portfolio of Evidence development (encouraged by NHS England)
Essential Requirements
Qualifications and Training
* Level 3 Certificate in Social Prescribing Link Work
* Evidence of relevant training in health and social care, community development, or related field
* Current DBS clearance (Enhanced level)
Experience
* Minimum 2 years experience in a people-facing role (health, social care, community work, or youth services)
* Essential: Experience working directly with young people in a support capacity
* Experience of working with diverse communities and understanding of local area
* Experience of partnership working and networking
Skills and Competencies
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
* Strong listening skills and empathetic approach
* Ability to work autonomously while being part of a team
* Good organisational skills and attention to detail
* IT skills including use of clinical systems (training provided)
* Understanding of confidentiality and data protection principles
Personal Qualities
* Non-judgmental approach with respect for diversity
* Patience and resilience when working with vulnerable individuals
* Enthusiasm for community engagement and social action
* Professional boundaries and self-awareness
* Specialist requirement: Understanding of youth culture and contemporary challenges facing young people
Desirable Requirements
Additional Experience
* Previous work in primary care or NHS environment
* Experience with mental health and wellbeing support
* Knowledge of local community resources and services
* Experience working with families and young people in transition
* Volunteer sector experience
Specialist Youth Work Desirable
* Understanding of adolescent development and youth transitions
* Knowledge of education, employment and training pathways for young people
* Experience with digital engagement and social media platforms
* Awareness of youth-specific services and support networks
What We Offer
* Competitive salary on NHS Agenda for Change pay scale
* Comprehensive induction programme and ongoing training
* Professional supervision and peer support network
* Access to NHS pension scheme and benefits
* Flexible working arrangements
* Manageable caseload with typical annual maximum of patients for full-time role
* Opportunity to make a real difference in your local community
* Career development opportunities within expanding PCN services
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: £13.50-£15.00 per hour
Expected hours: 30 – 37.5 per week
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Employee discount
* Free parking
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person