Social prescribing link workers, health and wellbeing coaches, and care co-ordinators should complete accredited training (as set out below) to ensure they have the knowledge, skills and expertise to carry out their role safely and effectively as outlined in the Personalised Care Core Curriculum. These training standards are also set out in the workforce development frameworks for social prescribing link workers, health and wellbeing coaches and care co-ordinators.

For those working in primary care these training requirements, and the need for primary care networks (PCNs) to support them, are also set out in the Network Contract Direct Enhanced Service.

There is a range of learning that social prescribing link workers, health and wellbeing coaches, and care co-ordinators to access through the Personalised Care Institute. This includes online and offline training and resources, some of which is free of charge. Evidence-based personalised care training ensures that the quality of service is consistent and that people in these roles are supported with their ongoing professional development.

How to become a social prescribing link worker, health and wellbeing coach or care co-ordinator

There is no single route into these roles. People who want a career as a social prescribing link worker, health and wellbeing coach or care co-ordinator could come from other sectors where they have gained the transferable skills to meet the core competencies required for the role. These roles can also offer a route into employment for those who may have lived experience, and/or few formal qualifications.

A community health and wellbeing worker apprenticeship is one route into the roles. The purpose of a community health and wellbeing worker is to work in partnership with individuals and their communities to identify and address health and wellbeing needs, improve health, prevent ill-health and reduce inequalities. After completing the apprenticeship people may choose a career as a social prescribing link worker, health and wellbeing coach or care co-ordinator. However, they would still need to demonstrate the necessary competencies, be committed to personalised care and have the necessary training. 

Please see our ARRS Roles page, for more information on the purpose and differences between these roles.