It takes more than medicine to heal.
Social Prescribing is an innovative approach that connects individuals to activities, groups, and services in their community to address practical, social, and emotional needs that impact health and well-being.
Instead of a drug or medication, doctors around the world are now giving their patients a new type of prescription. They’re prescribing that their patients go to a museum, listen to a concert, or spend time in nature.
This approach is embedded in healthcare systems in many parts of the world.
Much of what we know about Social Prescribing is based out of the U.K. General practitioners (or primary care providers) refer patients to Link Workers. Link Workers meet with patients to assess their unique needs and connect them with non-clinical community resources such as painting, dance, music, gardening, walking, volunteering, or nature-based activities.
BGF supports children, caregivers, and the community through social prescribing initiatives aimed at increasing access to the healing arts.
In September 2024, we hosted the region’s first-ever Social Prescribing Roundtable Convening, bringing together key stakeholders to explore implementation strategies. Building on this momentum, the Benjamin Goldberg Foundation launched the Hampton Roads Social Prescribing Network (HRSPN)—a quarterly virtual meeting series designed to:
Sustain connections among stakeholders
Share updates, best practices, and success stories
Collaborate on implementing healing arts prescriptions locally
Develop a strategic roadmap for advancing social prescribing in our region
Interested in Joining?
HRSPN meetings bring together healthcare providers, healing arts therapists, artists, and community leaders passionate about advancing social prescribing. If you'd like to join, please email us at sheetal@benjamingoldbergfoundation.org.
Social Prescribing is a global movement becoming more mainstream in the U.S.
While not yet adopted in the U.S. healthcare system, Social Prescribing is gaining traction through non-profit organizations. The Benjamin Goldberg Foundation is leading the Hampton Roads region in raising awareness and implementation of Social Prescribing initiatives.
Read BGF articles about Social Prescribing:
To learn more about social prescribing, visit:
Global Social Prescribing Alliance
For information on program implementation, visit: