The 2021-2022 Director of Public Heath Annual Report looks at a fresh approach to improving our physical and mental health. It is called a ‘community asset-based approach’.
The approach focuses on empowering people and listening to communities so they have more control.
It highlights the value of local assets such as community and voluntary sector organisations, green spaces and community buildings in helping people to feel better mentally and physically.
The Covid-19 pandemic showed the power of people helping other people and making use of existing assets in their communities.
The idea now is to build on this with people and organisations working together. This means listening to residents to understand what they need in their area and how best to provide this.
The new approach has already begun. For example, there are now more than 40 social prescribers working in GP surgeries and communities.
These practitioners have detailed knowledge of what’s available in their communities. This means they can refer patients to groups and activities that will help improve their wellbeing. They can also help people address certain health issues so they are not relying solely on medication.