By Gemma Pritchard-Woollett, HSCP Integration Officer and Lead CLW for Clackmannanshire
Over the past year, our Community Link Worker (CLW) project has continued to grow, adapt, and demonstrate the real difference that local, person-centred support can make. In October we held our yearly Community Link Worker event where we reflected on the last year and shared updates from our latest report. I want to share some of these reflections and why this work matters more than ever.
Putting People at the Heart of Health
At its core, the CLW approach is about recognising that health is shaped by much more than medical care. Housing, employment, social connection, and financial security all play a role in wellbeing. By working alongside GP practices and community partners, our link workers help people navigate these wider determinants of health. Ensuring no one is left to face challenges alone.
What We’ve Achieved
This year’s report highlights several key outcomes:
- Improved access to support: We’ve expanded into three new practises and seen a 42% increase in referrals and a 41% increase in encounters compared to last year
- Stronger community connections: Link workers have built trusted relationships with over 62 organisations.
- Collaboration across sectors: By bridging health and community services, we’ve strengthened integration and reduced pressure on primary care. This year we saw a 19% reduction in Primary care reappearances for those individuals who had engaged with a CLW.
Stories That Inspire
Behind every statistic is a story. We’ve seen people regain confidence after long-term unemployment, families find stability through housing support, and individuals discover new purpose through volunteering. These stories remind us that small, consistent acts of support can transform lives.
One of these stories is Emma, who was referred to CLW following her mother’s terminal cancer diagnosis. Our support helped her to better come to terms with the loss of her mother, grow her social connections, and it turn, improve her confidence. You can hear her full story below:
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, our focus will be on:
- Expanding access so more people benefit from CLW support.
- Deepening partnerships with local organisations.
- Continuing to evidence the impact of this work to ensure sustainability.
A Call to Action
Trustees, partners, and colleagues across health and social care all have a role to play in shaping healthier, more resilient communities. I invite you to read the full report, reflect on the insights, and consider how we can continue to collaborate for the benefit of the people we serve
CTSI manages the Community Link Worker programme in Clackmannanshire and Stirling alongside Stirling Voluntary Enterprise (SVE).
