Global Social Prescribing Alliance

Global Social Prescribing Alliance (GSPA)
The current healthcare system focuses on treating illness rather than preventing it. GSPA promotes a broader approach,

recognizing that wellbeing extends beyond medicine.

Our Core Aims

Global Community of Practice: Connect and support members to share learning and strengthen impact.
Spread & Adoption of Social Prescribing: Promote integration of social prescribing in health systems worldwide.
International Evidence Collaborative: Coordinate global evidence to inform best practice and policy.

Vision & Mission

Vision: Thriving communities driving a social revolution in health and wellbeing.
Mission: Advance social prescribing globally through collaboration, innovation, and advocacy, aligned with UN SDG 3 (Good Health & Wellbeing).

Key Principles
1️⃣ Redefining Health & Wellbeing – Prioritizing sustainable, high-value healthcare.
2️⃣ Clinical Leadership – Building a network of global healthcare champions.
3️⃣ Community Development – Partnering with governments & institutions for impactful solutions.
4️⃣ Building Blocks – Arts, Nature, Exercise, Knowledge for holistic health.
5️⃣ Workforce Solutions – Tackling healthcare workforce shortages while creating meaningful jobs.
6️⃣ Digital Innovation – Empowering patients through technology and goal-oriented care.

Our Impact

Launched in 2021 by the UK Secretary of State for Health.
Global playbook, training, and knowledge-sharing across 30+ countries.

How We Support Change
✔ Hosting global events, webinars, and roundtables
✔ Expert advice on social prescribing & health innovation
✔ Training and development programs
✔ Consultancy and investment opportunities in health initiatives

💡 GSPA is creating a sustainable health model—improving wellbeing while generating meaningful jobs at scale.
— Gareth Presch, CEO, GSPA

Global Social Prescribing Alliance (GSPA) - 2025 Social Prescribing Impact Award Nomination Form

The Global Social Prescribing Alliance (GSPA) is proud to recognize exceptional contributions

to the global advancement, implementation, and integration of social prescribing.

At the GSPA, we are committed to championing social prescribing initiatives that promote health equity, person-centered care, and multi-sectoral collaboration. We believe in the power of communities to lead transformation, and we honor the individuals and organizations making this a reality.

These awards celebrate those driving meaningful change in health and wellbeing through innovative, inclusive, and evidence-informed social prescribing practices. By showcasing these achievements, we aim to inspire continued progress, shared learning, and global cooperation to build healthier, more resilient, and connected communities.

Award recipients will be announced during the 2026 GSPA Summit (online).

Nomination Information: 2025 Global Social Prescribing Impact Awards

Deadline to submit nominations: December 4, 2025

Award Category

Global Social Prescribing Innovation Award 2025
Global Social Prescribing Connector Award 2025
Global Social Prescribing Researcher/Research Team Award 2025
Global Student Champion Award 2025
Global Social Prescribing Change maker Award 2025

Sponsorships: gareth@whis.world

As a membership organisation, the Global Social Prescribing Alliance (GSPA) brings global communities together to transform healthcare through social prescribing and create inclusive economic opportunities that leave no one behind.

National Social Prescribing Groups: A Global Opportunity to Improve Health and Wellbeing

Around the world, health systems face growing pressures rising demand, limited resources, and widening inequalities. To meet these challenges, we need new approaches that prioritise prevention, wellbeing, and community-based care.

That’s where social prescribing comes in and it’s gaining global momentum.

Under the umbrella of the Global Social Prescribing Alliance (GSPA), governed by WHIS CIC UK,

we are proud to announce the establishment of

National Social Prescribing Groups (NSPGs).

What are NSPGs?
Each group unites health systems, social care, academia, community organisations, and the private sector to:
Scale social prescribing nationally
Share knowledge and best practices
Co-design and deliver innovative projects
Explore new financing models such as outcomes-based contracting

This is more than a policy shift it’s an invitation to join a global movement.

By working together, NSPGs strengthen local priorities while benefiting from GSPA’s global networks, frameworks, and resources.

“The launch of National Social Prescribing Groups is a significant step forward in building healthier, more resilient communities. Social prescribing has the potential to transform health systems, reduce inequalities, and improve lives.”
— Gareth Presch, CEO, Global Social Prescribing Alliance

Why it matters:

Transforms health systems from treating illness to promoting wellbeing
Builds community resilience through non-clinical support
Aligns with UN SDG 3: Good Health and Wellbeing

From volunteering to arts, exercise, housing and financial advice—social prescribing empowers individuals and communities to thrive.

Learn more about NSPGs here: National Social Prescribing Groups: A Global Opportunity to Improve Health and Wellbeing

Interested in joining this global collaboration? Contact: gareth@whis.world

Global Social Prescribing Alliance

Training & Development Roadmap for Link Workers

Empowering the Global Social Prescribing Workforce

Empowering the Global Social Prescribing Workforce
Launch of the Link Worker Training & Development Roadmap

Link workers are central to the social prescribing movement, supporting individuals to improve their health and wellbeing.

Yet many face barriers to training and professional development.
A recent UK survey highlights the need:
36% unaware of available training
41% have no access to a training budget
70% want to grow their skills and confidence

Introducing the GSPA Roadmap
In response, the Global Social Prescribing Alliance (GSPA), in collaboration with WHIS and global academic partners,

is proud to launch the Training & Development Roadmap for Link Workers.

This living framework supports link workers at all stages:
Landscape - a baseline foundation understanding of the SP ecosystem

Practice - equipping those with skills to deliver programmes

Advanced - CPD and enhanced

System - Leadership and transformation

Five Core Skill Categories
Practical Knowledge – Digital skills, documentation, time management
Working with People – Communication, empathy, trauma-informed practice
Cross-Sector Collaboration – System navigation, referrals, partnerships
Health & Wellbeing Support – Equity, prevention, holistic approaches
Professional & Personal Wellbeing – Resilience, reflection, boundaries

“Link workers are the frontline of care transformation. This roadmap is a statement of intent,

we’re building a confident, skilled, and globally connected workforce.”
— Gareth Presch, CEO, Global Social Prescribing Alliance

Summary: Link Worker Education & Career Progression
Flexible Learning Options – Acknowledging diverse educational backgrounds and pathways
Career Progression & Real-World Learning – From Level 3 to MSc and PhD opportunities
Access to Funding & Support – Apprenticeship levy, loans, sponsorships, and grants
Lifelong Learning & CPD – Ongoing skills development across core themes
Global Interest & Collaboration – Strong demand from partners across the world
Strategic Opportunity – Aligning link worker development with system-wide transformation

✈️ Join Us in Helsinki — and Beyond

Be more than a delegate. Be part of a movement.

As part of the UK Business & Medical Delegation to Radical Health Festival Helsinki 2026, you’ll have the opportunity to join the World Health Innovation Summit (WHIS) global network and engage directly with the Global Social Prescribing Alliance (GSPA).

By participating in this international mission, you’re not only showcasing UK leadership—you’re stepping into a growing global community committed to innovation, prevention, and person-centred care.

Why Join WHIS and GSPA?

✔️ Access to international events and global thought leadership
✔️ Influence policy and practice through international collaboration
✔️ Join working groups, innovation showcases, and high-level roundtables
✔️ Help scale social prescribing and preventative care worldwide
✔️ Be visible in global campaigns aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals

This is more than a trip—it’s your invitation to connect, contribute, and lead on the global stage.

Let’s Work Together

Whether you’re a link worker, employer, commissioner, academic or community partner, we want to collaborate!

💡 Feedback? Questions? Want to get involved?
📧 Email us: info@whis.world

Building a stronger, more connected workforce—together.

We welcome collaboration through formal learning opportunities while ensuring our resources are protected and used ethically.

Become a GSPA Champion

Unlocking Industry Opportunities Through Social Prescribing

By 2030, prevention represents a $12 trillion market opportunity, reshaping industries from healthcare to finance, wellness, and culture. At the heart of this shift lies social prescribing.

HealthTech & Digital Innovation

The global digital health market is expected to reach $660 billion by 2025(Statista).
Huge potential to embed social prescribing in electronic health records, referral systems, and personalised wellbeing platforms.

Lifestyle, Wellness & Sport

The global wellness economy was valued at $5.6 trillion in 2023, forecast to reach $8.5 trillion by 2027 (Global Wellness Institute).
Social prescribing opens referral pathways from healthcare to gyms, wellbeing apps, mindfulness services, and nature-based therapies.

Arts, Culture & Nature

Cultural prescribing programmes reduce GP visits by 37% and A&E attendance by 27% (UK NHS studies).
The global creative economy already represents over 3% of global GDP and is set to grow as a pillar of preventative health.

Finance, Insurance & Investment

Preventable diseases will cost the global economy $47 trillion in lost output between 2010–2030 (World Economic Forum).
Social prescribing provides opportunities to align investment portfolios with ESG and SDG goals, while supporting scalable, community-based health interventions.

Workforce & Education

Mental ill health is the leading cause of long-term sickness absenceglobally.
Social prescribing-based workplace wellbeing programmes improve retention, resilience, and productivity.

Commercial Engagement Policy – GSPA

To maintain transparency, trust, and the integrity of our mission, the Global Social Prescribing Alliance (GSPA) limits commercial collaborations, co-branded initiatives, and strategic partnerships to active GSPA members or recognised partners.
This policy ensures that all parties contributing to and benefiting from GSPA’s global work on social prescribing are aligned with our principles of equity, community empowerment, and shared value.
We welcome conversations with stakeholders across sectors who share our commitment to advancing social prescribing, but access to commercial engagement, innovation pilots, speaking opportunities, and international campaigns is reserved for members or official collaborators under formal agreement.
Also see the WHIS Funding Policy, as WHIS is the parent organisation of GSPA and governs all commercial and funding agreements related to GSPA activities.
For partnership enquiries, please contact info@whis.world or gareth@whis.world

Unlocking Industry Opportunities Through Social Prescribing

*Subject to availability and T&Cs

TEAM

Chair GSPA James Sanderson

Chair GSPA James Sanderson
Current CEO, Sue Ryder (UK)

Previously, James was National Director of Community Health Services, Personalised Care, and Palliative and End of Life Care at NHS England, leading efforts to deliver tailored healthcare services that meet patients’ individual needs and preferences.

With previous roles including foundi

Chair GSPA James Sanderson
Current CEO, Sue Ryder (UK)

With previous roles including founding CEO of the National Academy for Social Prescribing and CEO of the Independent Living Fund, James is recognised for his commitment to transforming health and care systems, fostering collaboration across different sectors, and driving forward initiatives that improve quality of care. His efforts are aimed at creating a more compassionate, responsive, and efficient healthcare system that can adapt to the evolving needs of the population.

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Gareth Presch, CEO GSPA

Chair GSPA James Sanderson

Gareth Presch is an international health systems expert and visionary leader with over 25 years of experience in healthcare innovation, strategy, and policy. He is the Founder and CEO of the World Health Innovation Summit (WHIS) and serves as CEO of the Global Social Prescribing Alliance (GSPA), advancing preventative, people-centred care

He was previously Chief Officer of Ireland’s National Haemophilia Council and served as an advisor to Pope Francis’s Vatican COVID-19 Commission (Group 2), focused on global solidarity, health equity, and care beyond the pandemic.

A former Leadership Fellow at St George’s House, Windsor Castle, Gareth is dedicated to building sustainable health ecosystems through collaboration, innovation, and inclusive growth.

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"Your Guide to the Types of Social Prescribing"

Social Prescribing is a holistic approach connecting people to non-clinical community services—“prescribing a life, not just medicine.” Types of social prescribing include:

🌱 Green – Nature-based activities for mental & physical wellbeing (e.g., community gardening, nature walks, forest bathing).
🌊 Blue – Water-based activities for health benefits (e.g., wild swimming, coastal walks, river mindfulness).
🎨 Arts & Culture – Creative engagement to support emotional health (e.g., art classes, music therapy, theatre, museum visits).
🧘 Physical Activity – Tailored movement and exercise (e.g., walking groups, yoga, swimming, dance).
🤝 Social & Community – Reducing isolation through connections (e.g., friendship clubs, volunteering, peer support).
🧠 Mental Health & Wellbeing – Non-clinical mental health support (e.g., mindfulness, meditation, resilience workshops).
💼 Work & Skills – Building confidence, skills, and purpose (e.g., job clubs, mentoring, skills workshops).
🏘️ Practical Support – Assistance with daily challenges affecting health (e.g., housing, debt advice, food banks).

Global Social Prescribing Alliance