GGC0936 Community Link Workers (Renfrewshire)

Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership (RHSCP) deliver adult social care services and all community health services for adults and children in the Renfrewshire area. The Public Bodies (Joint Working) (Scotland) Act 2014 set out the requirement for NHS boards and local authorities to integrate adult health and social care services in Scotland. It is envisaged that by working together, NHS and Council social care services can ensure those who use services get the right care and support at the right time in the right place.

Within the context of an integrated provision of health and social care, Renfrewshire HSCP will provide services that are person centred and outcome-focused but at the same time sustainable and cost effective. Services are under continuous review and it is expected that change programmes and action plans to implement national policies will continue to be developed during the lifetime of the agreement.

Our vision is for Renfrewshire to be a caring community where individuals are valued and supported to live well.

The three strategic priorities guiding the work of the HSCP are:

• Improving health and wellbeing
• Delivering the right service, at the right time, in the right place
• Working in partnership to treat the person as well as the condition.

Since 2018, a contract for Community Link Workers has been in place in Renfrewshire, and the service has expanded and adapted over time. Currently, all 27 GP practices in Renfrewshire have a Community Link Worker assigned.

The rationale for link workers is that when individuals feel supported in their lives, they are more likely to respond positively to practical support aimed at improving their health and well-being. Early support can potentially reduce the risk of developing long-term conditions or delay/prevent further complications for those already living with chronic illnesses.

By intervening at an earlier stage, it is anticipated that extensive or unnecessary GP appointments can be avoided, and more meaningful and beneficial social interventions can be identified. This approach is expected to alleviate pressure on GPs and other health professionals, allowing them to focus on more health-specific interventions. Additional information: The contract will be awarded for 24 months based on the current funding available. It will include the option for two 12-month extensions, contingent on future funding being confirmed.