Authors
Summary
The primary aim of the research project was to provide Historic England, the National Monuments Service, and the Heritage Council with a clear understanding of existing and emerging research which directly relates to improving wellbeing through heritage (the historic environment and archaeology). The study employed a Rapid Evidence Assessment (REA) and Quick Scoping Review (QSR) to systematically identify and appraise academic and grey literature from 2019–2024. Additionally, expert interviews, a sector-wide survey, and a stakeholder workshop provided qualitative insights. Thematic and content analysis techniques were used to synthesise data, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of heritage’s impact on wellbeing. The research underscores heritage’s significant role in mental health, social cohesion, and community identity. Heritage engagement fosters hedonic (happiness-based) and eudaimonic (meaning-based) wellbeing, particularly through community archaeology, cultural participation, and green heritage spaces. However, heritage remains underrepresented in public health policy due to inconsistent evaluation methods and fragmented funding. The study calls for sustainable funding models, cross-sector collaboration, and the development of sector-specific wellbeing indicators to better integrate heritage into national wellbeing strategies. Ultimately, the findings highlight the need for longitudinal research and policy recognition to ensure that heritage is positioned as a key contributor to individual and community wellbeing.