Researchers at the University of Waterloo, in collaboration with Lupus Canada, individuals living with lupus, and healthcare professionals, are recruiting Ontario residents living with lupus to participate in a new Social Prescribing Pilot. This pilot will explore how personalized, community-based supports may help improve wellbeing and strengthen connections within the lupus community.
Researchers are currently recruiting both Participants and Link Workers living with lupus in Ontario.
What Is Social Prescribing?
Social prescribing is a holistic approach that supports overall wellbeing by connecting people with non-medical services and community resources.
Rather than focusing only on clinical care, social prescribing helps individuals identify activities, programs, and supports that may contribute to their wellbeing.
Examples may include:
- Art and creative programs
- Volunteer opportunities
- Community groups
- Recreation and wellness activities
- Social supports
At its core, social prescribing focuses on: “What matters to you?” rather than “What is the matter with you?”
Why This Research Matters
While social prescribing programs exist in other healthcare settings, there has not been a social prescribing pilot specifically developed for people living with lupus.
People living with lupus often face unique physical, emotional, and social challenges. This pilot was created to better understand how tailored, lupus-specific support could improve wellbeing and help inform future programs, services, and research.
Because this is a pilot project, participants and Link Workers will play an important role in helping shape what future versions of the program may look like.
How the Pilot Works
Step 1: Recruitment
Researchers are recruiting approximately 25 participants and 10 Link Workers living with lupus in Ontario.
Step 2: Link Worker Training
Selected Link Workers will receive training to prepare them for their role supporting participants.
Step 3: Personalized Wellbeing Plans
Participants will meet virtually with trained Link Workers to create a personalized wellbeing plan based on their goals, interests, and needs.
Step 4: Community Connections
Participants will be connected with activities, resources, and supports that align with their wellbeing goals.
Step 5: Evaluation
Researchers will gather feedback through surveys, interviews, and discussions to better understand the impact of the pilot and identify opportunities for future development.