Social Prescribing: A New Chapter for Italy’s Health and Wellbeing – WHIS Italia Launch
As we officially launch WHIS Italia, I am proud to introduce a vital initiative that is already transforming lives around the world: Social Prescribing. It is more than just a healthcare intervention – it’s a movement to reconnect individuals with their communities and empower them to take control of their own health and wellbeing.
Italy, with its rich tradition of community, culture, and care, is the perfect setting for this next chapter.
What is Social Prescribing?
Social prescribing is a model that enables health and care professionals to refer people to a range of local, non-clinical services – from arts and cultural activities to gardening, volunteering, exercise groups, and support services. It is rooted in the understanding that health is more than the absence of disease; it is about living well.
This approach addresses the social determinants of health – the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. By connecting individuals with community-based support, social prescribing fosters connection, purpose, and belonging.
Why Italy? Why Now?
Italy faces many of the same challenges as other health systems: rising rates of chronic illness, mental health issues, and health inequalities. But it also has a unique opportunity – a strong foundation of community networks, passionate civil society organizations, and a commitment to solidarity.
Through WHIS Italia, we are creating a platform for innovation, collaboration, and shared learning, supporting regions and cities to embed social prescribing into local health strategies.
Our goal is clear: to empower individuals, reduce pressure on healthcare systems, and build thriving, connected communities.
A Vision for Thriving Communities
At WHIS, we believe that health is a shared responsibility. That’s why we are building partnerships across government, business, academia, and civil society – uniting everyone with a role to play in prevention and wellbeing.
The launch of WHIS Italia is the beginning of a journey. Together, we will:
- Establish Healthy Living Centres to serve as hubs for social prescribing in local communities.
- Develop training and support for link workers and community connectors.
- Share data and evidence to demonstrate impact and shape policy.
- Promote equity, inclusion, and access – ensuring no one is left behind.
Looking Ahead
Social prescribing is already embedded in national strategies across the UK, parts of Europe, and beyond. Now, through WHIS Italia, we are planting the seeds for a Mediterranean model of social prescribing – one that honours Italy’s local heritage while embracing global best practice.
This is more than a policy idea – it’s a movement for change.
I invite everyone – healthcare professionals, mayors, educators, artists, entrepreneurs, and citizens – to join us as we reimagine what health can look like in Italy.
Together, let’s build a healthier, happier, more connected future for all.
By Gareth Presch – Founder, World Health Innovation Summit (WHIS) & CEO, Global Social Prescribing Alliance