The University of Coimbra launched a social prescription service aimed at promoting the well-being, quality of life and inclusion of the academic community, in an initiative that also aims to combat situations of isolation. The new service is structured according to the principles of the PERSONA Model – Promotion of Personalized Well-Being Pathways, an extension project of the master's degree in Social Education, Development and Local Dynamics of the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences of the UC.
The Vice-Rector for Teaching and Attractiveness, Cristina Albuquerque, explained that the initiative aims to reinforce an integrated approach to health and well-being, helping students develop their potential, increase their connection to the university and reduce situations of isolation. The responsible also considered that the service may indirectly contribute to academic success and to reducing school dropout.
Social prescribing starts with 15 formalized partners, whose collaboration protocols were signed on September 3rd, with other entities expected to join. Students can be referred by colleagues, faculties, or university services, with the main entry point being Ponto UC, a support and monitoring space for the academic community where the new service will be integrated. Each student will have a personalized pathway, defined after an interview, being subsequently referred to a response or activity in the community deemed appropriate to their needs.
The FPCEUC faculty member Maria do Rosário Pinheiro explained that social prescribing is based on a preventive and relational approach of a non-clinical nature, directed at psychosocial, psychoemotional and socio-educational needs. Vice-Rector Delfim Leão highlighted the innovative nature of the initiative in
