The government has announced £3.6 million of government funding for the National Academy of Social Prescribing in order to support mental health and wellbeing.

The funding is intended to provide innovative types of mental health support, to improve healthy living, reduce overprescribing and reduce capacity on GPs.

Social prescribing can be used to help those experiencing grief, addiction, dementia and loneliness. Activities that could be prescribed include gardening clubs, exercise classes to build confidence and financial advice.

Minister of State for Care Helen Whatley said: “Social prescribing is an unsung hero in getting thousands of people the support they need to get through hard times - whether it be low self-esteem, dementia or loneliness.

“I’m really pleased that we’ve agreed new funding for the National Academy of Social Prescribing, so it can continue the valuable work it does day in and day out to support the health of the country.”

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