A recent mapping of sickness benefit hotspots in the UK has revealed the areas with the highest proportions of working-age people claiming sickness benefits. The data, compiled from various government sources, identified 20 regions where a significant percentage of the population rely on benefits such as Employment and Support Allowance and Universal Credit equivalents. Topping the list is East Marsh and Port in Grimsby, where a staggering 33% of working-age adults are claiming sickness benefits. This is indicative of a larger trend in former industrial towns and urban centers, where high unemployment and health challenges are prevalent.
Other notable areas included in the list are Central Easterhouse in Glasgow, Birkenhead Central, and Drumchapel North in Glasgow, all of which reflect a pattern of high sickness benefits, low life expectancy, and other socio-economic challenges. These communities often face limited access to healthcare, poor housing, and fewer job opportunities, leading to a reliance on state benefits for many residents. In areas like Greenock, a historic shipbuilding town, industrial decline has had a lasting impact on health and employment, contributing to high rates of sickness claims and chronic health conditions.
Further down the list, towns like Ardrossan Central in Ayrshire and Methil West in Fife struggle with economic hardship and a lack of job opportunities. These areas, once reliant on industries like coal mining, have not been able to adapt to the modern economy, leading to high sickness rates and below-average life expectancy. Blackpool, a popular seaside resort town, also faces significant socio-economic challenges, with 51% of working-age adults relying on out-of-work benefits. Seasonal employment tied to tourism creates instability, leaving many residents without steady work or income.
Despite the struggles faced by these communities, some areas like Alloa South and East in Clackmannanshire stand out for relatively higher life expectancies compared to other towns on the list. However, with 29% of working-age residents claiming sickness benefits, it is clear that there are still significant health and employment challenges to address. The overall picture painted by the data is one of disparity and hardship in many towns and cities across the UK, where a combination of factors such as industrial decline, limited access to healthcare, and a lack of job opportunities have created a cycle of ill health and reliance on state benefits for many residents. By highlighting these sickness benefit hotspots, there is an opportunity to address the underlying issues and work towards improving the health and well-being of these communities.
