By Michelle Crean

There's a wide range of local, non-clinical services to support peoples' health and well-being - and an information session will be held next week.

Known as Social Prescribing, locals can benefit from being more involved in groups, clubs and activities within their community. It's run in collaboration with Killarney Library and South Kerry Social Prescribing Service.

And next Tuesday (April 4) an information session will take place from 11am to 1pm in Killarney Library on Rock Road.

"Join us for information on a range of activities provided by voluntary and community organisations, such as arts, group learning, life-long learning, gardening, befriending, volunteering, cookery classes, sports groups and physical activity," Deirdre Nagle, Social Prescribing Link Worker at Ballyspillane Community & Family Resource Centre, explained to the Killarney Advertiser.

"Social Prescribing supports the health and well-being of people by helping them link into local supports and activities in the locality. Social Prescribing recognises that health is heavily determined by social factors such as poverty, isolation and loneliness. Social Prescribing offers GPs and other health professionals a means of referring people to a range of local, non-clinical services to support their health and well-being. Individuals can also self-refer to this service. It is a means to address peoples' needs in a holistic way while supporting the individual to take greater control of their own health."

This service is for adults over the age of 18 years, who feel they could benefit from being more involved in groups, clubs and activities within their community, she added.

"It is for those who are open to change within their everyday lives.”

For more information contact Deirdre on 087 429 3407 or Paula 087 447 5447.