In our response to the Scottish Government’s consultation on Quality Prescribing for Chronic Pain guidance, we welcome the recognition of social prescribing as an effective non-pharmacological approach for treating chronic pain.
The community link worker model in particular has considerable benefits as an intervention for chronic pain, supporting people to set goals and responding to the wider effects of chronic pain on people’s mental health and opportunities for social connection.
However, in our response we also advise caution in referring to social prescribing models in clinical guidance without recognising the considerable challenges many social prescribing services are facing at present. The current provision of social prescribing in Scotland is inconsistent, with many experiencing unsustainable funding arrangements. Recognition of social prescribing as a positive addition to treatment pathways for chronic pain is welcomed, but this must be backed up with a commitment to sustainable investment.
If you have any further comments or questions about this response, please contact our Policy and Public Affairs Lead, Sarah Latto.
