A new report from the National Academy for Social Prescribing (NASP) shows that social prescribing can lead to significant reductions in NHS service use and associated costs.
Titled The Impact of Social Prescribing on Health Service Use and Costs: Examples of local evaluations in practice, the report brings together data from nine areas in England and highlights how social prescribing can reduce GP appointments, A&E attendances, and hospital admissions.
Key findings from the report include:
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A 42.2% reduction in GP appointments for 1,751 patients in Tameside and Glossop.
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A 15.4% to 23.6% decrease in A&E attendances for 5,908 patients in Kent.
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In Kirklees and Rotherham, patients who were frequent healthcare users saw a notable reduction in GP visits and A&E attendances.
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In Newcastle, secondary care costs were 9.4% lower for patients accessing social prescribing, compared to a matched control group.
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In Rotherham, a pre- and post-analysis of frequent users showed a 39% reduction in A&E costs.
While results varied between sites and methodologies, the overall picture supports the expansion of social prescribing as an effective intervention, particularly for patients with complex or frequent healthcare needs.
A personalised, preventative approach to health
Social prescribing connects patients with non-medical forms of support in their communities, such as activity groups, social services, or housing and financial advice. Patients typically work with a Link Worker, who helps them develop a personalised plan based on what matters to them.
Since its adoption into national policy in 2019, more than 3,500 Link Workers have joined primary care teams, with social prescribing also being increasingly adopted in secondary care.
NASP calls for expansion
Charlotte Osborn-Forde, Chief Executive of NASP, emphasises the need to move from treatment to prevention:
“Social prescribing is not only good for patients, but good for the health system too. It helps people to stay healthier for longer and reduces pressure on services. We’re calling for the NHS to expand social prescribing so that every patient who needs it can access it.”
NASP’s previous research indicates that social prescribing also delivers excellent return on investment. A 2023 review estimated that for every £1 spent, the social and economic return ranges from £2.14 to £8.56.
Source: National Academy for Social Prescribing
Guide to Social Prescribing – National Virtual Conference
Friday 12th September 2025 | CPD Certified
Building on the latest findings from the National Academy for Social Prescribing, this conference will bring together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community partners to explore how to turn evidence into action. Through case studies and expert-led sessions, attendees will discover practical strategies to expand access, reduce health inequalities, and deliver inclusive, personalised care that makes a measurable difference to individuals and communities.
Book your place here.
