Evaluating the impact of a pilot social prescribing service for the armed forces community

AIM: This study evaluated the impact of a novel social prescribing service designed specifically for the Armed Forces Community (AFC) and its influence on service users' wellbeing. BACKGROUND: Social prescribing connects individuals with non-clinical, community-based support to address loneliness, long-term conditions, and mental health. Despite advances in social prescriber training, a gap remains in resources for working with the AFC, who present distinct wellbeing needs. A two-year project, funded by the NHS Armed Forces Health and the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, sought to enhance provision by equipping Social Prescriber Link Workers with specialist skills. METHODS: A sequential mixed-method design was adopted. Quantitatively, changes in wellbeing for 259 AFC service users were measured using the Short Warwick and Edinburgh Wellbeing Scale before and after consultations with Armed Forces Social Prescriber Link Workers (AFCSPLWs). Qualitatively, semi-structured interviews were undertaken with AFCSPLWs, general social prescribers, General Practitioners, and AFCSPLW line managers to explore experiences of service delivery. FINDINGS: Wellbeing scores significantly increased from initial (mean = 15.3) to final consultations (mean = 18.79), indicating positive effects; however, scores remained lower than national averages, reflecting the complex needs within the AFC population. Thematic analysis identified four themes: Armed Forces Experience and Perspective, Challenges and Barriers, Service Delivery and Effectiveness, and Skill Development and Attributes. Subthemes highlighted AFC-specific challenges, the practical complexity of the AFCSPLW role, and the importance of cultural competence. Advocacy, navigation, and relationship-building emerged as central mechanisms, with AFCSPLWs acting as vital connectors across primary care, third-sector services, and professional networks.