Irene Lumb has been a Social Prescribing Link Worker (SPLW) at PGPA for five and a half years, working across the Upper Calder Valley PCN, primarily with Hebden Bridge Group Practice. What she enjoys most about her role is the opportunity to speak with people from all walks of life – across all ages and backgrounds – through telephone appointments, face-to-face meetings, or home visits.
Her work is focused on “what matters” to each individual, and she appreciates that the role gives her time to build meaningful rapport through longer appointments. By simply listening and acknowledging a patient’s situation, Irene helps people feel heard, which often leads them to open up more about their circumstances. Every day is different, and the variety keeps her engaged and constantly learning.
The key skills in her role include empathetic listening (being able to imagine herself in someone else’s shoes) flexibility with appointments and team working, strong communication both written and verbal, and confidence with digital tools. She interacts with a wide range of people including PGPA staff, the PCN team, patients, and professionals from external organisations.
Irene previously worked as an Outreach Worker and then as a Perinatal Outreach Worker supporting families with children under five. When she was ready for a new challenge, a colleague encouraged her to apply for the SPLW role at PGPA – an opportunity she’s very glad she took.
One particularly proud moment came when she supported an elderly couple whose boiler had stopped working, leaving them without heating or hot water. They also needed new radiators and had limited access to the internet. Irene helped source Gas Safe engineers, supported them with quotes, decision-making, and communication. The boiler and radiators were replaced, and the same engineer later returned to carry out kitchen works with Irene’s continued support.
Another powerful memory was working with a patient referred to a local mental health charity. The patient had been feeling hopeless and contemplating suicide. Irene provided encouragement and hand-holding throughout the process. After completing a course that included counselling, the patient returned transformed—wearing bright colours, smiling, and making eye contact. They told Irene, “Without your support and introducing me to that charity, none of this would have happened. I’ll always be grateful I came to see you.”
Irene has no plans to change careers as she finds her job incredibly fulfilling. She continues to learn and grow with the support of both her immediate and wider team. Hybrid working provides the flexibility to work from home, in practice, or conduct home visits.
Outside of work, she enjoys time with family and friends, walking her cheeky cocker spaniel Taz, watching films, and going on hikes – having once completed a 23-mile walk from Scarborough to Whitby.
She describes PGPA as a supportive, flexible employer and often recommends roles to others. “PGPA is making a good name for itself across Calderdale. It’s a great place to work, especially if you want to feel trusted and supported.”