Wrexham County Borough Council (WCBC), in partnership with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB), is investing in a Social Prescribing and Community Wellness Service to support people across the county borough to improve their health and wellbeing, maintain their independence and stay connected to their communities.
Following a competitive procurement process, The Rainbow Foundation has been awarded the new contract to deliver the service from 1 September 2026.
The service represents a significant step forward in community-based wellbeing support in Wrexham, bringing together social prescribing and community wellness support within a single county-wide model. The service builds on the strengths and learning from the successful Community Agent programme while expanding access, increasing integration with health and social care services, and providing more personalised support for people.
What is social prescribing?
Social prescribing is a person-centred approach that helps people improve their health and wellbeing by connecting them with practical support, community activities, local groups and services that can make a positive difference to their lives.
It recognises that health and wellbeing are influenced by much more than medical care alone. Factors such as loneliness, social isolation, caring responsibilities, financial pressures, confidence, mobility and access to local opportunities can all affect a person’s quality of life. Social prescribing supports people to identify what matters most to them and access the support they need to achieve their personal wellbeing goals.
The service supports people aged 25 and over and encourages a preventative approach, helping people to access support earlier before their needs escalate.
The service will work closely with GP practices, health professionals, social care teams, voluntary organisations, community groups and local partners to ensure appropriate access to support at the right time.
Supporting people to live well
Cllr Beverley Parry-Jones, Lead Member for Adult Social Care, said: “We recognise the deeply important contribution Community Agents have made to support our communities over many years. Working in partnership with BCUHB, the new Social Prescribing Service builds on that brilliant work, and creates a more joined-up, sustainable approach that will benefit residents across Wrexham.
“By aligning with national policy and working closely with our health partners, we are ensuring that people can continue to receive high-quality, community-based support that helps them stay well, connected, and independent.”
Caroline Tudor-James, Chief Executive of The Rainbow Foundation, said: “We are delighted that Wrexham County Borough Council and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board have chosen to invest in expanding social prescribing across Wrexham.
“This builds on a well-established and award-winning service that has supported local people for many years. Through this enhanced partnership, more residents will be able to access personalised support that focuses on their strengths, aspirations and what matters most to them.
“The Rainbow Foundation is recognised as a Centre of Excellence for Ageing Well in Wales, providing rehabilitation, therapy, care and support, information, advice and activities that empower independence, enhance wellbeing and enrich lives.
“One of the things we are most passionate about is making support easy to access. We actively encourage people to contact us directly if they feel they would benefit from some extra support. You do not need to wait for a referral from your GP or another professional. Sometimes a simple conversation can be the first step towards improving wellbeing, building confidence and reconnecting with your community.
“By working alongside health, social care and community partners, we can help more people access support earlier, strengthen connections within their communities and improve their overall wellbeing.”
How to access the service
The Social Prescribing and Community Wellness Service welcomes referrals from:
- Individuals seeking support for themselves
- Family members and carers (with consent)
- GP practices
- Health professionals
- Social care professionals
- Community and voluntary organisations
- Councillors and other frontline services
Self-referrals are encouraged, and residents do not need to be referred by a health professional to access support.
For more information or to make a referral you can contact The Rainbow Foundation:
Email: spt@rainbowfndn.org.uk
Telephone: 01948 830730
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