Launch of the Training & Development Roadmap for Link Workers
Link workers are at the heart of the social prescribing movement. They provide personalised, non-medical support that helps individuals take control of their health and wellbeing. Yet despite their vital role, many face significant challenges when it comes to accessing the training and development they need.
A recent survey of link workers in the UK revealed some striking gaps: 📊** 36**% are unaware of the training available �� 41% have no access to a dedicated training budget 📊 47% are unsure whether one even exists 📊 70% want to grow their skills and confidence in their role
These figures highlight a clear need: a consistent, supportive, and globally accessible pathway for training and development.
A Clear Path for Growth: The GSPA Roadmap
The Global Social Prescribing Alliance (GSPA), in collaboration with the 🌍** World Health Innovation Summit (WHIS**) and a network of world-leading academic and innovation partners, is proud to launch the** Training & Development Roadmap for Link Worker**s.
Designed as a living, evolving resource, the roadmap offers structure and clarity for link workers at every stage of their career:
This living framework supports link workers at all stages:
1) Landscape - a baseline foundation understanding of the SP ecosystem
2) Practice - equipping those with skills to deliver programmes
3) Advanced - CPD and enhanced
**4) System - Leadership and transformation **
What Does the Roadmap Cover?
The roadmap is based on five key skill categories that underpin effective and ethical practice across all health systems:
✔ Practical Knowledge – Digital literacy, time management, documentation ✔ Working with People – Empathy, communication, cultural competence, trauma-informed care ✔ Cross-Sector Collaboration – Partnership working, system navigation, referrals ✔ Health & Wellbeing Support – Health equity, prevention, holistic understanding ✔ Professional & Personal Wellbeing – Resilience, boundaries, reflective practice
It is aligned with international best practice, informed by lived experience, and flexible enough to be applied across diverse settings, cultures, and systems.
A Word from Our CEO
“Social prescribing is a powerful tool to transform how we deliver care link workers are the frontline of that change. Our training roadmap is not just a guide it’s a statement of intent. We are committed to building a skilled, confident, and globally connected workforce. Together, we can create healthier, more resilient communities.” — Gareth Presch, CEO, Global Social Prescribing Alliance
Summary: Link Worker Education & Career Progression
Link workers play a central role in the success of social prescribing, yet their educational and career progression remains varied and often undefined. This summary outlines our strategic perspective on how to support and develop link workers across the UK and internationally.
Flexible Learning Options Link workers enter the role with a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds. While some begin their journey through the recommended Level 3 apprenticeship, others bring significant prior qualifications. A flexible, learner-centred approach is essential to reflect the diversity of skills in the field.
Career Progression and Real-World Learning Paths There is no single path to progression. Many link workers pursue advanced qualifications or specialised continuing professional development (CPD), contributing to thought leadership and innovation in community health.
Access to Funding and Support Various funding mechanisms—including apprenticeships, student loans, and professional sponsorship—can support link workers at different stages of their careers. We are working to ensure that guidance on accessing these options is clearer and more widely available.
Lifelong Learning & CPD Ongoing professional development is critical to quality care and staff wellbeing. Topics such as trauma-informed care, digital health, and leadership are especially relevant.
Global Interest & Collaboration There is growing interest from international partners in structured link worker development. We welcome collaboration through formal learning opportunities while ensuring our resources are protected and used ethically.
Strategic Opportunity We are engaging with partners and stakeholders to map out voluntary development pathways, highlight real-world examples, and help shape the future of social prescribing careers—both in the UK and abroad.
Closing Thought By investing in educational clarity and opportunity, we can uplift the profession, strengthen health outcomes, and reinforce social prescribing as a cornerstone of integrated care.
Join the Movement
Whether you are a link worker, employer, policymaker, academic, or health innovator we want to hear from you.
📩** Feedback or questions? Want to collaborate? Become a**** GSPA Champion? �� Email u**s: info@whis.world 🌐 Websi[te: www.whis.world/gspa
Let’s work together to build a stronger, more supported social prescribing workforce locally and globally.
#SocialPrescribing #LinkWorkers #GSPA #GlobalHealth #Prevention #HealthEquity #WorkforceDevelopment #WHIS