The “Pathways to Tomorrow” event brings together global and local pioneers in social prescribing to explore innovative approaches transforming healthcare and well-being across communities.
In a world that’s becoming increasingly aware of the connection between health and well-being, social prescribing is emerging as a transformative force. The concept, which encourages healthcare providers to refer patients to non-clinical services—like community groups, arts, and nature-based activities—is gaining momentum globally.
The “Pathways to Tomorrow” event organised by the Barbican Creative Hub working with Dr. Robert Dean, Deputy Head of the School of Creative Arts at the University of Lincoln, promises to take this conversation a step further, offering a deep dive into global and local trends in social prescribing. By highlighting case studies from across the world and combining them with personal stories from Greater Lincolnshire, the event aims to showcase how social prescribing can be a game-changer in modern healthcare.
Global Social Prescribing Insights: Learning from USA and Canada
One of the highlights of this event is the keynote by Dr. Robert Dean, Deputy Head of the School of Creative Arts at the University of Lincoln, who will offer global insights into social prescribing. Having travelled internationally researching the topic, this event will share this research insights whilst showcasing case studies from the USA and Canada, highlighting how these countries are embracing the concept in ways that reflect their unique cultural contexts.
Local Social Prescribing Insights: Panel Discussion
While global examples offer a high-level perspective, the real magic of social prescribing often unfolds on the ground. The event will feature a dynamic panel of local social prescribers, creative practitioners, and beneficiaries from Greater Lincolnshire, where social prescribing is already making a significant impact.
Among the panellists is Rachael Clark, an artist who will share her personal journey of healing through the arts. Clark’s story of transformation illustrates how creative practices can act as powerful tools for self-expression and emotional recovery. CPSL Mind, a leading mental health charity, will also share insights on how social prescribing is helping individuals manage mental health issues through engagement in community-based activities.
Other panellists include Anna Scott who leads health projects for Transported in Boston and South Holland, Ewan East Project Manager for soundLINCS, Dona Hall who has been studying how fitness such as ParkRuns and Bingcise can support wellbeing, and Caty Collier, Social Prescribing Development Lead, Lincolnshire Voluntary Engagement Team (LVET).
These local experiences shine a light on the potential of social prescribing to not only improve health outcomes but also foster a sense of belonging and purpose within the community.
Social Prescribing across Greater Lincolnshire: In Action
The afternoon sessions promise to be just as engaging, as participants will have the opportunity to experience social prescribing in action. Delegates will be able to choose from a variety of workshops that represent the diversity of social prescribing activities happening in Greater Lincolnshire.
Green Synergy: A community gardening initiative that uses horticulture as a tool for mental and physical well-being. Green spaces and gardening have been shown to reduce stress, boost mood, and foster a sense of community, making it a perfect example of the benefits of nature-based social prescribing.
SoundLincs: An organization that uses music as a therapeutic tool. Participants will explore with musician Chris Stanton how sound and rhythm can be harnessed to enhance emotional well-being, offering a creative outlet for self-expression and community connection.
Firefly: Lauren Williams will offer a dynamic blend of aerial arts, strength training, and creative expression, providing participants the opportunity to explore the beauty and power of aerial performance in a supportive environment.
Toumaranke: Chris Sylla will bring the vibrant energy of West African drum and dance to life, offering participants an immersive experience in traditional rhythms and movements, fostering a deep connection to culture, music, and community.
The District Herbalist: Focusing on the therapeutic properties of herbs and natural remedies, this session by Hannah Sylvester will highlight how herbal medicine can complement traditional healthcare and improve overall health outcomes.
By offering interactive workshops, the event gives delegates the opportunity to see firsthand how these approaches are improving the well-being of local communities.
The Barbican Creative Hub hopes the “Pathways to Tomorrow” event will showcase the importance of sharing knowledge across borders. But also emphasize the importance of listening to local stories, like those from Greater Lincolnshire, where social prescribing is helping people find meaning and connection in unexpected places.
This is the second event on Social Prescribing the Barbican Creative has held, and builds upon ‘Shining a Light on Social Prescribing” held in October 2023 that welcomed 100+ delegates across the creative and cultural industries and healthcare professionals.