From Feeling Overwhelmed to Looking Forward: Destiny’s Social Prescribing Journey

When 24-year-old Destiny was referred to Integrated Plus by Dudley Talking Therapies, she was looking for social support and free activities to help improve her wellbeing. However, it quickly became clear that there were several interconnected challenges affecting her daily life.

After moving from supported accommodation into her own home, Destiny found the transition to independent living difficult. She shared struggling with everyday life skills, feelings of being overwhelmed managing this on her own and was finding it hard to navigate adulthood. Destiny had also been identified as having traits of Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with further assessment recommended.

Gemma, Senior Social Prescribing Link Worker, visited Destiny at home to complete a holistic assessment. Together, they explored the practical and emotional challenges she was facing. Destiny was dealing with energy debt, financial pressures, housing issues including damp and broken cooking facilities, and the stress of trying to access multiple services on her own.

Recognising that all of these issues were affecting Destiny’s wellbeing, Gemma developed a personalised support plan and helped coordinate the support she needed. Referrals were made to Act on Energy and Housing Support, an application was submitted to the BRIC Fund for an air fryer, and Destiny received a foodbank voucher alongside signposting to a foodbank that could meet her dietary needs. Gemma also supported her to access the Household Support Fund, which was successfully awarded.

To help reduce isolation and build confidence, Destiny was introduced to The Art Yard, a Spring into Action funded community group, where she could explore her creativity while meeting new people. To make attending easier, she was also provided with free bus travel through Transport for West Midlands.

One of the biggest barriers for Destiny was feeling overwhelmed by the number of organisations she had been signposted to. By making referrals on her behalf and staying in regular contact, Gemma helped remove some of that pressure, allowing Destiny to focus on her wellbeing rather than navigating complex systems alone.

Reflecting on the support she received, Destiny said she was “overwhelmed with everything in a good way.” She particularly enjoyed attending The Art Yard, where learning new creative techniques “inspired her to do more.”

Six months later, the difference has been remarkable. Destiny describes herself as feeling much more positive and confident. She is now attending the gym, cycling more regularly, has reconnected with an old friend and is gradually improving her home. She is also planning to enrol at The Recovery College to continue building her confidence and skills.

Looking back on her journey, Destiny said:

“When me and Gemma initially met, I didn’t want to be here, but with all this work and support I’m in a completely different place.”

Destiny’s story demonstrates the power of person-centred social prescribing. By taking the time to understand the whole person—not just one problem—and coordinating practical, emotional and community support, Integrated Plus helped Destiny move from feeling overwhelmed to feeling hopeful about the future.

Could Integrated Plus help you?

If you’re living in Dudley and feel that non-medical issues such as loneliness, finances, housing, wellbeing or accessing local activities are affecting your health, you may benefit from support through Integrated Plus.

Speak to your GP practice or another healthcare professional, such as a nurse or mental health practitioner, about a referral to the Integrated Plus Social Prescribing Service. They can discuss whether social prescribing is right for you and help you access the support available in your local community.