As the Defra 2010 Circular relating to National Parks makes clear, working to foster the social well-being of local communities within the National Park is an important function of the NPA.  The NPA is advised to work closely with agencies who have the lead responsibility for the social development of the National Park communities (para 100). The Defra working paper ‘National Park Authorities: assessment of benefits’ (May 2011) concludes that social inclusion is one of the benefits of National Park designation.  This is achieved not only by promoting opportunities for understanding and enjoying the National Park’s special qualities but also through work, for example, helping to encourage rural transport services.  The paper also recognises the wider role that outstanding open countryside plays in social well-being, especially countryside that is reasonably accessible from centres of population such as National Parks.

The Defra working paper also cites examples of NPAs engaging actively with their communities.  For example, Northumberland NPA has adopted an Action Area approach, using local distinctiveness as a framework for engaging communities and other partners in planning, caring for and managing their local landscapes.  The LDNPA has created a Communities Fund referred to above.  It also has dedicated Planning Officers and Area Rangers for its Distinctive Areas so communities have one point of contact, and has worked with communities on valley planning.

North York Moors National Park Authority: Measuring Health and Well-being Impact (2018) calculated the Social Return on Investment (SROI) for the North York Moors National Park Authority (NYMNPA) in respect of its health and well-being impact.  This is the social value created when organisations engage in activities and projects that make a difference to individuals and society.  In terms of health and well-being, it is increasingly recognised that National Parks have a crucial role in connecting people with nature, raising activity levels, facilitating outdoor recreation, and providing space for tranquillity.  The report estimates that every £1 invested by DEFRA generates approximately £7 of health and well-being benefits.

In terms of the Lake District, the State of the Park 2018 report shows that the proportion of visitors who feel health and wellbeing benefits has increased from:

• 85% of visitors feeling physically better in 2015 to 93% in 2018.
• 80% of visitors feeling mentally better in 2015 to 94% in 2018.