Glossary

An approach that identifies and develops the strengths and resources already present in a community to support sustainable wellbeing.

A category of clinical staff including dietitians, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and others — distinct from doctors, nurses and SPLWs. SPLWs sometimes progress to AHP or AHP-assistant roles.

A simple shared decision-making framework for exploring options with someone.

The ability of an adult to understand, retain, weigh and communicate a decision about their own treatment or support. Different jurisdictions define this in law in different ways — apply your local framework. SPLWs should know when to seek a formal capacity assessment from a qualified clinician.

A behaviour change model: behaviour requires Capability, Opportunity and Motivation.

The principle that a child or young person can consent to their own care and support when they have sufficient understanding of the decision and its consequences. Different jurisdictions express this through different legal tests — apply yours.

Ongoing learning and reflection used to maintain and improve competence in a role.

Shorthand for the under-18 population. Specialist SPLW work with CYP requires additional skills, supervision and competence-based consent awareness.

Behaviour by an intimate partner or family member that causes physical, sexual, financial or emotional harm. Specialist services exist locally — many are part of the voluntary and community sector.

Principles ensuring fair access, treatment and opportunity for everyone.

A doctor providing primary care, sometimes also called a family physician. Each SPLW should have a clinical supervisor — often a GP — accountable for clinical aspects of the role.

International alliance of social prescribing practitioners, researchers and partner organisations working to grow the social prescribing workforce globally. Co-developer (with WHIS) of this programme.

Common abbreviation, used both for Health and Wellbeing Coaches (HWB coaches) and for health and wellbeing initiatives in policy and practice.

A personalised care role focused on supporting behaviour change and self-management. Works alongside SPLWs and care co-ordinators.

A team of professionals from different disciplines working together with the person at the centre.

An approach that uses every interaction with a person to support healthier choices, when invited.

A counselling style that helps people resolve ambivalence and find their own motivation for change.

The four core skills of motivational interviewing: Open questions, Affirmations, Reflective listening, Summaries.

Four short personal wellbeing questions (life satisfaction, worthwhile, happiness, anxiety) — used widely as a brief outcome measure for personal wellbeing.

A validated tool for assessing patient activation — the knowledge, skills and confidence a person has in managing their own health.

A process led by the individual to agree their goals and the support they need.

The principle that health and care services should involve patients and the public in their design, delivery and evaluation. Co-production is the deepest form of PPI.

A role that supports people to access community-based services, groups and activities to meet practical, social and emotional needs that affect their health and wellbeing. Used internationally; equivalents in some countries include 'link worker', 'community connector' or 'health navigator'.

Sector encompassing charities, community groups and social enterprises. Sometimes called the 'third sector', 'nonprofit sector' or 'civil society' in other countries.

Established in 2015 to improve health and wellbeing outcomes through innovation, education and partnerships. Co-developer (with GSPA) of the WHIS Social Prescribing Link Worker programme.