When you think of RAF Fylingdales, you probably picture the iconic ‘golf balls’ tracking objects in space, playing a vital role in our nation’s defence. But behind the scenes, a new kind of mission is underway—one focused on well-being and enjoying the great outdoors!
Thanks to a fantastic £15,200 NAAFI Fund grant, RAF Fylingdales now has an incredible new outdoor sheltered wellbeing area. This isn’t just any old shelter; it’s a beautifully designed, rustic retreat that perfectly blends with the stunning North Yorkshire Moors landscape. It offers shelter from the famously changeable weather, along with light, heating, and power—creating a cosy space where people can relax, socialise, and simply recharge.
Life at RAF Fylingdales can be uniquely challenging. With 70+ serving personnel on-site, plus contractors, and no public transport, the base is a remote community. Many personnel work demanding 12-hour shifts inside the radar control rooms, where there’s no natural light—only artificial lamps.
This new outdoor space is a game-changer. It provides a much-needed alternative to indoor social areas, helping to combat isolation and giving everyone a chance to step outside and connect with nature. Fund Manager Hannah McCourt recently visited the base and, despite the typically rainy and windy Yorkshire weather, got a real feel for daily life there. The project lead and other staff were wonderfully welcoming, sharing stories and giving a glimpse into what a typical day is like. It’s clear that a space to enjoy the elements and the beautiful moors is a huge treat.
The benefits of this new area are already being felt. Service members are able to sit outdoors much later, whether they’re meeting up with friends or simply enjoying a quiet moment. It’s a perfect spot to read a book, listen to the sounds of nature, and just relax. The shelter also has power, allowing people to charge their phones and laptops, encouraging longer social interactions.
The space has quickly become a hub of activity. It’s hosted various BBQ’s, providing a perfect spot for socialising. For a location where you might feel cut off from the world, this new area will help to build stronger connections and a happier, healthier force.
The feedback from this project has been overwhelmingly positive, and it’s clear the shelter is already making a big difference to morale and community spirit.
Here’s what some of the service personnel had to say:
“RAF Fylingdales needed something like this, it is great!”
“Why has this not been done before! I enjoyed sitting outdoors with my dog having lunch.”
“We sit outside in the evenings and chat with the heating on.”
It goes to show that even in a place dedicated to looking up at the stars, it’s just as important to have a space to appreciate the ground beneath our feet.
If you have a welfare project in mind, we want to hear about it! Get in touch to find out how the NAAFI Fund can help bring your vision to life. Contact us for more info on how to apply @naafisocial.
