District Dispatch - 2 September 2025

In fact, at least 20% of people who visit their GP are dealing with underlying issues that aren't necessarily medical. Trying to navigate these problems alone can be overwhelming, but I want all of our residents to know that help is available. Our Social Prescribing Team is here to listen and work with you to plan the next step forward.

Launched seven years ago, our Social Prescribing service offers tailored support that connects people with activities, groups, and services in their community that help meet their practical, social, and emotional needs. The team takes time to understand each person's situation, helping them get to the root of the issue and to find long-term solutions that will improve their wellbeing.

To make this support even more accessible, we're running a series of 'Meet your Social Prescriber' community pop-up events at GP practices across the north of the district. The first event, held in Midhurst earlier this week, was a great success. Upcoming events include Petworth Surgery on 10 September and Loxwood Medical Practice on 17 September, with further details to be announced soon.

These events offer a relaxed and confidential space where residents can meet our Social Prescribers and Wellbeing Advisors to explore the support that's available, including help with loneliness and isolation, housing or financial concerns, digital inclusion, managing a caring role, or making positive lifestyle changes such as stopping smoking, managing weight, or becoming more physically active. Our friendly staff can offer support such as signposting to local resources, services, or activities that can make a real difference to people, helping them take positive steps towards a happier, healthier life.

Whether someone is worried about housing or financial pressures, caring for a loved one, managing a long-term health condition, or simply wants to feel more connected to their community, these events are designed to engage with residents in the heart of our communities. We will share more details about upcoming events on our social media channels and via our online What's On diary.

If you or someone you know could benefit from the support of our Social Prescribers, please get in touch with the team by emailing socialprescribers@chichester.gov.uk or visiting our Social Prescibing web page.

We also offer a similar service for young people aged 13 to 25, introduced in response to the impact of the pandemic. This service supports young people who may be feeling lonely, lacking confidence, or wanting to build stronger connections with their community and friends. Our designated Social Prescriber will work with them to create a personalised plan, linking them to activities, events, and organisations that can help them feel better and more connected. You can find out more on our Chichester Youth Connections page.

I also wanted to remind you about our 'Supporting You' team. They offer a range of assistance, from help with paying bills to help with housing — if you're struggling with the cost of living, please find out how they can support you by visiting our Supporting You web page.

Our monthly email newsletter is a great way to receive notifications about the services and events available to you, so please do sign up if you haven't already. The council has also just introduced a new Chichester District Council Facebook Messenger channel (opens new window)! By signing up, you'll receive information about events — as well as emergency advice, important news and opportunities for you to have your say in consultations — directly to your Messenger account.

Best Wishes

Cllr Tracie Bangert, Cabinet Member for Communities and Wellbeing at Chichester District Council