In a world that seems to change by the minute, it's inspiring to witness how communities adapt and thrive amidst challenges. One shining example comes from Fiona Laffan, the Waterford County Social Prescribing Coordinator, whose testimonial highlights the innovative spirit of social prescribing during the unprecedented obstacles brought on by COVID-19.
"Social Prescribing has been a challenge over the last year, but the service has become innovative and responded to this challenge. Initially, we were linking clients directly into activities, groups, and services, but since COVID-19, we have had to adapt and become the activity itself. This has included setting up online fitness classes, flower arranging, tapping therapy relaxation, coffee mornings, and outdoor walking groups, am
ong others. This has allowed our clients to stay connected and feel part of a group in the interim of face-to-face. We continue to link, where possible, clients into education, training, employment, etc. Therefore, many clients' action plans have not been stalled by COVID-19 but have continued to progress. For a lot of our older clients, we are linking them into the Alone Befriending service, and for those with chronic illnesses, the HSE Living Well Programme has been a great source of support for people. The service has been a huge support to our client's overall health and well-being throughout a very challenging year."- Fiona Laffan - Waterford County Social Prescribing Coordinator 089 491 7360
Listen to Fiona Laffan and Niamh Flavin, coordinators with the Waterford Social Prescribing Service talk about their service.
Fiona Laffan - Waterford County Social Prescribing Coordinator
Niamh Flavin - Waterford City Social Prescribing Coordinator
Sacred Heart Family Resource Centre,
Waterford
051 306728
Twitter: @socialprescribingwaterford