The National School of Public Health at NOVA University Lisbon (NSPH NOVA) is a leading institution in public health education, research, and the translation of evidence into policy and practice in Portugal. NSPH NOVA has accumulated extensive knowledge and experience in Social Prescribing (SP), providing technical and scientific support to multiple organizations in the design, planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of SP initiatives tailored to local and regional contexts. In parallel, NSPH NOVA has conducted impactful international research projects in this field.

Social Prescribing initiatives supported by NSPH NOVA have been implemented across different regions of Portugal, addressing social isolation and loneliness, social exclusion, socioeconomic constraints, and unhealthy lifestyles among diverse populations. These initiatives include groups experiencing complex vulnerabilities, such as older adults, migrants, and LGBTQIA+ communities.

The experience acquired, together with active collaboration in international networks and consortia, has positioned NSPH NOVA as a key actor in the promotion and development of Social Prescribing in Portugal. This leadership has enabled the establishment of the Social Prescribing Knowledge Centre at NSPH NOVA, supported by a multidisciplinary team dedicated to the study, development, and dissemination of SP in the country. Grounded in strong scientific and technical expertise, the Centre provides tools, methodologies, evidence, and training to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of SP initiatives.

The Social Prescribing Network, developed within the framework of the Social Prescribing Knowledge Centre, aims to strengthen the connection between primary healthcare users and community-based resources to improve health and well-being. The Network brings together researchers, professionals, citizens, managers, and policymakers to reinforce SP interventions, foster partnerships, and implement pilot initiatives.

NSPH NOVA’s participation in Invest4Health represents an opportunity to further consolidate its role as a driver of innovation in public health. This involvement will support capacity building, the scaling-up of successful local models, and the establishment of Social Prescribing as a cost-effective, citizen-centred approach to reducing health and social inequalities, promoting well-being, and ensuring long-term sustainability. Additionally, Invest4Health will provide a platform to test and implement alternative financing and investment models, while strengthening the case for the integration of Social Prescribing into national health policies.