Helen Blackburn
Lead Social Prescriber
Northamptonshire Rural Primary Care Network
The Challenge
Helen discovered that several elderly patients within her rural community had not been in direct contact with the surgery for some time. She was aware that lack of digital literacy in this group was a possible factor in limiting access to services.
25% of people aged 65 and over do not use the internet
The Innovation
Helen identified 10 patients unaware of available support. Partnering with PCN practices and libraries, she set up social prescribing drop-in sessions three times a month. These sessions primarily attract elderly patients needing help with caregiving, isolation, and IT, staffed by social prescribers and occasionally other agencies. A Data Manager regularly attends to assist with the NHS App, and libraries offer IT support and promote adult education classes.
The Impact
- Improved confidence and access to digital technology to access health care services.
- Reduced social isolation for patients in a rural community.
- Improved integration with the local ICB, which is aware of the initiative and its impact on health inequalities in the elderly.
