Helping Young People in Derbyshire Thrive: Social Prescribing Programme Making a Difference
A dedicated team of 10 mentors and social prescribers in North Derbyshire have helped over 600 young people improve their mental health and access their communities through one-to-one mentoring, lunch clubs, volunteering and much more.
The Thr1ve social prescribing programme, delivered by Chesterfield Football Club Community Trust, operates across Northeast Derbyshire, Chesterfield, Bolsover, Amber Valley, and High Peak.
In the last year it has helped 623 young people aged 14 to 25 who are socially isolated, not in education, employment, or training, and often struggling with confidence or independence.
Sharlaine Fincham, Head of Youth Wellbeing & Engagement, explained:
“We’re seeing young people who feel completely disconnected from their communities. Our role is to give them the confidence to take that first step – whether that’s joining a group, volunteering, or simply leaving the house.
“It’s about creating opportunities that feel achievable and meaningful, so they can start to rebuild their lives.”
The organisation has been running since 2021 and in that time has helped more than 1500 access support.
Each young person is supported to create a tailored plan, including one-to-one mentoring and group sessions, aiming to build confidence, social skills, and resilience, re-engage with education or explore volunteering and training.
Nicola Gerard, Primary Care Network manager who commission the service for the population of North Hardwick and Bolsover said: “I’m proud to commission a service that makes such a meaningful difference to the lives of young people in our communities. Thr1ve’s success is built on the continued collaboration of local organisations, and that partnership is what enables us to deliver real impact where it matters most.”
Young people referred to Thr1ve have taken part in a wide range of practical, non-clinical activities designed to boost well-being and reduce isolation. These include school-based programmes like Thrive Minds, creative arts sessions, volunteering placements in Thr1ve’s own charity shops, weekly groups in Chesterfield for young people not in education, employment, or training, and healthy lifestyle courses at Shirebrook Leisure Centre. The programme also works closely with Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS), offering interim support for those on waiting lists for specialist care.
Dr Penny Blackwell, GP Partner at Hannage Brook Medical Centre and Chair and Clinical Director for Neighbourhood Health and Care at Derby and Derbyshire ICB, said: “Social prescribing is vital because it helps tackle the wider factors that affect health, not just the symptoms. By connecting young people to community groups, creative activities and practical support, we can reduce isolation, build resilience and improve wellbeing. This approach also eases pressure on clinical services and supports a shift towards prevention and inclusion, creating a health system that truly puts people at the centre.”
Thr1ve uses a person-centred approach, and has an open referral process for schools, GPs, therapists, and self-referrals for those over 16. Activities cover well-being, financial knowledge, and local safety, while feedback from young people shapes future services. Thr1ve also ensures young voices are represented in local authority meetings, influencing wider decisions about youth support.
Thr1ve’s approach aligns with the NHS strategy for children and young people by prioritising prevention, early intervention, and holistic support. By tackling isolation and promoting resilience outside clinical settings, the programme reduces pressure on specialist services and helps young people thrive in their communities.