Community Readiness Pathway
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Building the capacity to re-engage with everyday life
A structured programme for adults who are medically stable but experiencing ongoing stress, fatigue, disrupted sleep, or non-acute musculoskeletal discomfort.
It sits between clinical care and independent activity, supporting people who are not lacking advice, but finding it difficult to act on it consistently.
Many people referred into social prescribing have already received appropriate assessment or guidance. When stress is ongoing and recovery less reliable, it becomes harder to engage with activity, exercise, work, or wider support, even when the intention is there.
This pathway focuses on what sits underneath, how the body regulates and responds to everyday demand.
Through simple breath and movement practices, it supports more reliable regulation, reduces unnecessary tension, and builds tolerance to everyday activity.
Who it’s for
For adults who are medically stable but experiencing ongoing stress, fatigue, disrupted sleep, or persistent physical discomfort.
Often, people have already received advice or support, but are finding it difficult to re-engage with activity or maintain it consistently.
Participants need to be able to take part in gentle, low-intensity movement.
This pathway doesn’t replace medical care, crisis support, or specialist treatment.
Where additional support is needed, people are guided towards the most appropriate services.
What’s included
The programme runs over six live, facilitator-led sessions in small groups.
Alongside this, participants receive three months of Small Shifts membership, with guided audios and resources to support practice in everyday life.
Sessions introduce the principles and provide guided practice. The time between supports repetition, allowing changes in regulation to build gradually.
The focus throughout is on breathing more efficiently, reducing unnecessary tension in everyday movement, and supporting how the body responds to demand.
Delivered in small groups of up to 10–12, with the same facilitator throughout, providing continuity and a consistent structure across the programme.
In-person delivery can be arranged where appropriate.
Practical details
All participants complete a health screening and informed consent process before joining. Where the pathway is not appropriate, people are guided towards more suitable services. Safeguarding and data protection processes are in place throughout.
The standard fee is ÂŁ199, with a supported rate of ÂŁ149 available for social prescribing referrals or financial hardship. Subsidised places may be available where funding is secured.
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Referral Process
Suitability is discussed with the individual before referral. A short referral or self-referral form is completed and reviewed, and once confirmed, they join the next available group.
Referrers can be kept informed of participation and completion where appropriate.
Submit ReferralUpcoming Dates
Cohorts run throughout the year, with new groups starting regularly.
The next available dates are below.
 “Despite being under more stress currently, I feel more equipped to manage it.”
Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust participant
Rachel, Occupational Therapist
Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation
“I found myself relaxing more easily, sleeping better, and using the techniques in stressful moments at home and at work. They were simple, short, and easy to fit into daily life.”
Matt, Talking Therapist
Cornwall Partnership NHS FoundationÂ
“The sessions were clear and evidence-based. I’ve used the recordings to ease stress, improve sleep, and support me in stressful moments, including waking at night.”
About Small Shifts Community CIC
Small Shifts Community CIC is the not-for-profit arm of Small Shifts, created to widen access to structured, physiology-based programmes.
It supports individuals experiencing ongoing stress, fatigue, or reduced capacity who may not otherwise access early support.
Subsidised places and referral-supported rates are available where appropriate.
Start the Conversation
If you’d like to explore suitability, referral options, or upcoming cohorts, feel free to get in touch.
