Community Link Workers

Community link workers are based at your GP practice. They are non-clinical practitioners who are part of the Be Well service. They provide personalised, non-medical support to help people improve their health and wellbeing. Their role is very similar to social prescribing link workers and they focus on what matters to you rather than just looking at your health needs. 

Community link workers will listen to your concerns and take time to work with you to create a support plan that's right for you. They will give you the tools to take control of your own wellbeing and to feel more connected, informed and supported. 

Who can get support?

Community link workers can support people who:

• Feel lonely, isolated or vulnerable
• Need help with unemployment, benefits, housing or welfare
• Want support to access local groups, activities or services
• Have social needs that affect their wellbeing (such as carers)
• Frequently go to their GP or to hospital for non-medical or social concerns
• Would benefit from signposting or referrals to local services for social, practical or emotional support

Please note:
Community link workers are not:

• A weight management service
• A mental health crisis support service

If you need immediate mental health support

• Mental Health Crisis Intervention Team (for people aged 18–64): 0800 138 0990
• Crisis & Intervention Team for Older People (65+): 0800 138 0990

  If you are in crisis or feel at risk of harm:

  • Call NHS 111 or 999
  • You canalso call your GP practice (an emergency number will be available out of hours)
  • Contact the Samaritans any time on 116 123

Referral criteria

To access the community link worker service, you must be:

• 18 or over
• Registered with a Venn PCN GP practice

What happens after a referral?

You will be contacted by telephone within two weeks of your referral.
If we are unable to reach you, we will send a letter asking you to get in touch.

During your initial conversation, a community link worker will:

• Discuss why you have been referred
• Answer any questions
• Explore your needs and priorities
• Explain what support is available

Community link workers can refer or signpost you to services such as:

• Adult Social Care
• Carers' Information and Support Service (CISS)
• Citizens' Advice
• SmokeFree Hull
• RENEW
• NHS Talking Therapies
• Mental Health Wellbeing Coaches
• Local groups, classes, and community activities
• Many other services depending on your individual needs

What happens if I choose to accept support?

You will be invited to attend a 60‑minute initial assessment, either:

• Face‑to‑face at your GP practice, or
• On the phone

During your assessment, we will discuss:

• What is currently affecting your health and wellbeing
• What support, referrals or changes could help you
• What your goals are and how you want to move forward

You will then be offered regular follow‑up appointments, in person or on the phone, so we can review your progress and adjust your plan as needed.