VisitEngland has published a new study today that shows the positive cultural impacts and social impacts of tourism on communities in the UK.
The report – ‘The Social Value of Tourism’ – found significantly higher levels of community pride, sense of wellbeing and social cohesion amongst residents living and working in areas frequented by both domestic and international visitors.
Tourism areas have a higher level of community connection for residents. 58% of those surveyed who lived in these areas felt connected to the community, compared to only 35% of others. Those living and working in tourism areas (called ‘host communities’ in the report), were also more likely to be proud of their local area with sense of pride-in-place scoring 12% higher overall than in ‘non-host communities.’
After their trip to the UK, more than 70% of respondents felt healthier and more energized.
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Patricia Yates, CEO of VisitEngland, said:
“We know how tourism contributes to economic growth. With ‘The Social Value of Tourism’ report we can now also evidence how tourism improves wellbeing and social cohesion for both visitors and residents alike, as well as boosting employment opportunities, social mobility and improving local infrastructure.
As this report shows, tourism has a much wider impact than just its economic value. It creates communities that people want to visit, live in, and work in, and it enriches the community’s life.
When it comes to jobs and career advancement, tourism is a great option for people of all educational backgrounds. It offers excellent opportunities for apprenticeships for young people especially in rural communities and coastal communities. Eighty-five per cent of tourism/leisure apprenticeships were undertaken by those aged 24 and under compared to 52% across all sectors.
More than half of the residents of the host community live within five miles from these amenities, compared to those who reside further away. In tourist areas with high footfall, there were also examples of expanded bus and rail service that benefited both residents and tourists.
Public First produced the report for VisitEngland. It is backed up by 14 case studies of destinations that examine a variety of local and regional social, cultural, and community impacts. The case studies, which range from the impact of Eurovision 2023 on the local community to the economic growth of the North East and the value of the national parks, showcase the social value of tourism through the eyes of the local communities.
Tourism is one of England’s largest and most valuable industries, generating about £76 billion annually for the economy in domestic visitor spending.
