26 October 2026
by Niall Christie
New report looks at the positive impact of the service in Clackmannanshire and Stirling
A new report has highlighted the positive impact of Community Link Workers across Clackmannanshire and Stirling, with findings showing improved wellbeing, fewer primary care appointments and potential savings to local health services.
The Clackmannanshire and Stirling Community Link Worker Report 2025/26, published by Clackmannanshire Third Sector Interface (CTSI) and Stirlingshire Voluntary Enterprise (SVE), highlights a 52% increase in client wellbeing scores and a 39% reduction in Primary Care appointments among people included in the service's evaluation.
The findings also indicate potential savings of £50,238 to Primary Care, based on an evaluation of 20% of people supported by Community Link Workers over the past year.
While based on a relatively small sample, the results provide encouraging evidence of how connecting people with community-based support could help ease pressure on GP services.
Community Link Workers operate within GP practices, supporting people whose health and wellbeing may be affected by challenges such as loneliness, financial difficulties, housing problems and mental health concerns.
Rather than focusing solely on medical needs, they take time to understand people's individual circumstances and connect them with practical support, community organisations and opportunities to improve their wellbeing.
The service has continued to expand, with Dollar Health Centre and Viewfield Health Centre joining during 2025/26, bringing the total to 12 GP practices supported across Clackmannanshire and Stirling.
The report also highlights the importance of giving people time to be heard, with 42% of Community Link Worker appointments lasting more than 30 minutes.
Behind the figures are stories of people whose lives have improved through personalised support.
One individual, initially referred for help with financial difficulties and stress, was connected with financial advice, food support, wellbeing techniques and a local walking group. Reflecting on the experience, she said: "Some of the plans we made in the first appointment gave me confidence that things could get better."
She later described making new friendships through the walking group and feeling better able to manage her mental health.
Kainde Manji, deputy CEO at Stirlingshire Voluntary Enterprise (SVE), said: “This report demonstrates the real difference that Community Link Workers are making to people’s lives across Stirling and Clackmannanshire.
“Our team helps people tackle the social issues behind poor health, and the results speak for themselves, from improved wellbeing to fewer GP appointments. I’m proud of what they have achieved, and of how highly regarded they are by GP practices and partners across our communities.”
The report also recognises the vital contribution of local third sector organisations, which work alongside Community Link Workers to provide support ranging from financial advice and family services to physical activity, volunteering and community connections.
The team's work has also gained recognition nationally, with learning from its evaluation shared through Voluntary Health Scotland and contributing to discussions around the development of Community Link Worker services across Scotland.
CTSI and SVE will continue working with health and community partners to strengthen the service, improve access to support and build on the evidence of its impact.
The findings will also be discussed at the annual Clackmannanshire and Stirling Community Link Worker event on Thursday 5 November at The Golden Lion Hotel in Stirling, bringing together partners from health, social care and the third sector to reflect on the service's impact and opportunities for future development.
Gemma Pritchard-Woollett, HSCP integration officer and lead community link worker for Clackmannanshire, added: “What stands out to me is how much of a difference it can make when someone has the time and space to talk about what’s really happening in their life. People often come to us facing several challenges at once, and there isn't always a straightforward solution.
“Our Community Link Workers take the time to build trust, understand what matters to each person and connect them with the support that's right for them. The relationships we've built with local community organisations are a huge part of making that possible, and it's rewarding to see people grow in confidence and take positive steps forward.”
Community Link Workers reduce pressure on local GP services - TFN
The above information is from a Third Force News (TFN) Weekly Health & Social Care roundup Newsletter Wed 28/10/2026