As many of you will already know, Primary Care Networks (PCNs) are now established in Hammersmith & Fulham. So, what are PCNs?
PCNs are described by as one of the building blocks of the NHS Long Term Plan. They bring GP practices together so that they can deliver some of their functions “at scale”. Most PCNs are arranged on a geographical basis, and in Hammersmith & Fulham 5 PCNs have been established.
Part of the remit of PCNs is to deliver social prescribing through link workers. As the name suggests, Link Workers will “link” patients with local community based services which may be best placed to meet their needs.
Each PCN will employ a link worker, plus additional link workers have been funded by Macmillan Cancer Care and employed by the H&F GP Federation.
On the plus side – this should result in increased awareness and signposting to local community services. However, the obvious drawback is the capacity in local services to respond to what could be a significant increase in demand.
Sobus will be asking groups to update the information that we hold about their services on our database, including some information on space or capacity in your services, so that we can help Link Workers ensure they have access to a really good source of information. If you would like to update your information now rather than waiting until we contact you, please contact info@sobus.org.uk.
The attached link provides some further information on PCNs and social prescribing.
