Accessibility and use of social prescribing interventions by minority ethnic groups in the United Kingdom: a scoping review

Objectives

To map existing literature on the accessibility and use of social prescribing interventions/programmes by people from minority ethnic groups in the United Kingdom (UK).

Design

A scoping review guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews.

Data sources

Quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods and grey literature sources examining social prescribing among minority ethnic groups in the UK.

Eligibility criteria

Included sources focused on adults from minority ethnic groups who had accessed, been referred to or attempted to access any social prescribing intervention in the UK.

Results

A total of 17 papers were included. Common types of social prescribing included advice and information, arts and culture, nature-based activities and physical activity. Cultural relevance, tailored interventions, strong community links and link worker support facilitated engagement. Barriers included language issues, limited awareness, logistical challenges and cultural stigma. Demographic reporting was often inconsistent, with few studies specifying which services were accessed by different ethnic groups, limiting understanding of impact and equity.

Conclusions

This review highlights gaps in social prescribing research, emphasising the need for better understanding of how culturally tailored approaches enhance use, accessibility and effectiveness. Better demographic reporting and more research into culturally relevant approaches are needed. This will support the development of inclusive, effective social prescribing services that address the needs of diverse populations.