About Us
The National Association of Link Workers (NALW), founded in 2018 by Christiana Melam MBE, an award-winning leader in Health, serves as the professional body for Social Prescribing Link Workers. We are committed to advancing excellence in social prescribing, with a focus on enabling high-quality services that improve patient care and community well-being.
We establish and uphold universal standards, champion the critical role of social prescribing link workers in healthcare, and act as a bridge to other healthcare professions. Our work ensures safety, integrity, and effectiveness through evidence-based practices, competency and advocacy for policy improvements.
NALW’s social impact activities are directly linked to the development of the social prescribing workforce and supporting employers in delivering high-quality services. We equip link workers with the skills, training, and professional recognition they need to excel, while also helping employers enhance service design, improve outcomes, and meet the needs of their communities.
With our strong focus on both individual and organisational success, NALW is shaping the future of social prescribing and making a lasting impact on healthcare.
As a social enterprise, we are driven by the strength of our members. Join us in our mission to build a thriving workforce and transform healthcare through social prescribing.
Our cause
Resilient and capable Social Prescribing Link Workers achieving improved quality of life for themselves and the communities they serve.
Social mission Statement
To promote the role and value of Social Prescribing Link Workers, support and develop them to improve quality of life for themselves, their clients/patients, and communities.
Vision Statement
Social Prescribing Link Workers are recognised as essential to delivering holistic care in any health & care system. NALW is recognised as crucial to the success of Social Prescribing Link WorkersÂ
Values Statement
To deliver our social mission and vision, our approach will be guided by our 5 values.
Social Innovation
We are committed to meeting the needs of link workers now and in the future.
Co-Production
We listen to what matters to link workers and co-produce solutions.
Inclusiveness
We respect people, value diversity and inclusion and are committed to equality.
Collaboration
We are committed to a culture of openness and collaboration to maximise social impact.
Professional Integrity
We strive to preserve the professional integrity and quality of the link worker profession.
Our Aim
Promote link worker professional standards and practice
Unite the voices of link workers
Increase link worker connectedness
Build link worker capability and resilience