If you are registered with a GP in Frodsham, Helsby or Elton, you can now access help and guidance from a team of additional support link workers, who are there to enhance and strengthen care provision in our communities.

In this article, we introduce you to Becky Rowland, your local Wellbeing Link Worker.

In close partnership with the Community Care Team and Primary Care Network, Becky works to support people who have recently been discharged from hospital, while also liaising with our local care homes.

"I help local residents by working alongside our Primary Care Network, as well as local groups, services and organisations, to bring them a sustainable, inclusive and proactive community where they can be supported to improve their health and wellbeing," Becky tells me.

"During the pandemic I have mostly been working with those in the community who have been struggling with non-medical, social issues that are causing a negative impact on their wellbeing.

"This could be anything from loneliness and social isolation to emotional or mental health issues, carer support and advice to guidance on accessing relevant organisations and services.

"I am able to meet the individual at a place that is comfortable for them and will listen to what they hope to achieve or resolve before working with them on these goals.

"In 'normal times', I would be working closely with the community to help sustain, improve or create local groups to ensure we have a really inclusive and varied service provision.

"So far, during the pandemic, I have supported a local mindfulness group to take place in a Covid-secure manner (in between lockdowns) and worked with the Helsby Community Sports Club, which is set to open shortly.

"I am hopeful I can support the local social groups that ran pre-pandemic to get up and running again once it is considered safe to do so.

"Mine is a really varied role, which adapts constantly to the needs of the community."

Referrals to Becky's Wellbeing Link Worker services can be made by GP practice staff or by patients themselves. Ideally, contact should be made by emailing [email protected]

There will soon be a feature on the Primary Care Cheshire website which will enable community services to refer patients as well.

Becky is currently working with the other members of her team to produce a semi-regular newsletter which will help inform local people about the support available to them.