Often when a patient walks into a GP surgery, there are other agencies in the community that are better placed to support them.

Active signposting by reception staff

Active Signposting provides patients with a first point of contact who can direct them to the most appropriate source of help. Receptionists acting as care navigators can ensure that the patient is directed to the most appropriate source of help or advice. Recognising that people’s health is determined primarily by a range of social, economic and environmental factors, this workshop is to build awareness of services that are available in the community that can support patients, their families and carers in the Peterborough area. This information can then be relayed to the patient so that they can self refer to these services. 

Benefits for the receptionist?

Increased job satisfaction

Benefits for the practice?

Frees up GP time, releasing about 5 per cent of demand for GP consultations in most practices

Benefits for patients?

Awareness of how local community services can help, shortening the wait to get the right help.

Agencies attending are as follows:

  • Citizens Advice
  • Peterborough City College
  • MIND
  • Carers Trust
  • Alzheimers Society
  • Inspire Peterborough
  • Age UK
  • Peterborough Council for Voluntary Services