Social prescribing link workers-A qualitative Australian perspective

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Social Work
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Social prescribing addresses social determinants of health.
• Link workers are central to connecting clients with community resources.
• Growing interest in social prescribing in Australia necessitates workforce research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand the role and skills of Australian social prescribing link workers.
• To identify potential sources for the link worker workforce in Australia.
• To determine necessary training and resources for this emerging workforce.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving 15 link workers across Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.
• Thematic analysis of interview transcripts.
• Participant demographics included qualifications in social work and nursing.

Main Results:

• Key skills identified include multifaceted social and emotional competencies.
• Workforce challenges include lack of support, training, public awareness, and sustained funding.
• Link workers reported high job fulfilment despite challenges.

Conclusions:

• Fostering job fulfilment through enhanced support, training, and security can mitigate burnout.
• Adequate advocacy and resources are essential for successful social prescribing implementation.
• Investing in the link worker workforce is vital for program sustainability and client benefit.