Social prescribing and its uses with populations experiencing forced migration: A scoping review
Date
2026
Authors
Krueger, Noah
Clark, Nancy
Beltran-Oviedo, Paula
Zakher, Bernadette
Missaghi, Kimiya
Rahmani, Ashkan
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Victoria
Abstract
Background: Social prescribing is a healthcare approach that connects individuals to non-clinical, community-based supports that address the social determinants of health. While social prescribing initiatives have expanded internationally, most research has focused on older adults and individuals with chronic conditions, particularly in the United Kingdom. Populations experiencing forced migration, including refugees and asylum seekers, remain largely absent from this literature despite facing significant social and structural barriers that affect health and well-being.
Objective: This scoping review aims to explore what is known about social prescribing and how it applies to populations experiencing forced migration, including refugees, asylum seekers, and displaced persons.
Methods: This review follows the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews. Databases searched include MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, alongside grey literature sources such as Google Scholar and organizational websites. Two reviewers independently screen records and extract data, which are coded, grouped into categories, and analyzed for common themes.
Implications: Findings will identify current resources, highlight service gaps, and inform the development of community-based supports and knowledge mobilization initiatives, including a toolkit for social prescribers in partnership with MOSAIC.
Description
Keywords
social prescribing, refugee, asylum seeker, forced migrant population, global, community health, Jamie Cassels Undergraduate Research Awards (JCURA)