Voluntary Sector Assembly - Social Prescribing in Manchester

Social prescribing (Be Well) is operating across Manchester. A core element of the social prescribing model is linking people with long-term needs to neighbourhood organisations and assets, many of which are VCSE organisations.

It is good that the value of the VCSE sector is being recognised by the statutory sector as essential to people’s health and wellbeing. However, this is also highlighting a number of issues including;

• Lack of capacity in the VCSE sector;
• One-way referrals;
• Inequality of access to VCSE support across neighbourhoods;  
• Inequality of access to VCSE services for the diverse communities of Manchester;
• Poor information sharing;
• Role of city-wide VCSE sector.

The aim of this Voluntary Sector Assembly is for the VCSE sector to discuss and agree what it wants and needs in order to increase the impact and effectiveness of social prescribing. Together we will write a manifesto which will be presented by representatives of the assembly to senior representatives of Manchester Health and Care Commissioning and Manchester Local Care Organisation.

Join us for an afternoon of discussion and debate to help shape the future of social prescribing in the city.

Please note that this event is for Manchester VCSE staff and volunteers only.