STAFF at a wellbeing hub between Whitchurch and Wrexham are urging people to use a service which is aiming to tackle loneliness around World Mental Health Day.

The Rainbow Centre, in Penley and also in Marchwiel, wants people to be aware of the role of the Social Prescriber which is a free service linked to Wrexham borough doctors surgeries, covering a wide array of issues.

Joanne Hammond, from the Rainbow Centre, says the service is helping people who feel isolated on World Mental Health Day on Sunday, October 10.

She said: "You are not alone, not only do we listen, we truly hear what you say and can support you.

"Lots of people still don’t understand what Social Prescribing is.

"We provide a free service to patients registered with any Wrexham GP Surgery and can support you with a range of issues from work stress, bereavement to dealing with financial worries or to make lifestyle changes so that you feel better in yourself and are better able to cope with the challenges you are facing."

Jo Young, community wellbeing lead at the Rainbow Centre, added that a high number of people use their GP to talk about non-medical services.

She added: "Now, instead of reaching for the prescription pad, you can see a Social Prescriber who can ‘prescribe’ for your emotional wellbeing as well as giving you practical assistance to deal with the issues that are negatively impacting on your health.

"Mental health has been a health concern for many during the lockdown.

"Because of the work from home culture and isolation to prevent spread of the coronavirus, there was a rise in mental health issues.

"Not to mention the strains put on older people who were already struggling with isolation and accessing services locally’.

"Since January, our Social Prescribing service, which can be accessed via all GP surgeries across Wrexham, has seen us supporting more than 200 new patients and overall providing in excess of 1,045 appointments over the past nine months and feedback from patients has been really positive.’

"We also have a team of Community Agents based at the Rainbow Centre who provides support for our over 50s who live in the South Maelor area of Wrexham."

Anyone wishing to use the service can call 01948 830730.

Or to refer directly to the Social Prescribing service you can email them at spt@rainbowcentrepenley.org.uk, stating the surgery you are registered at and providing your contact details.

To find out more about what we do visit www.rainbowcentrepenley.org.uk