Deprivation According to the Index of Deprivation (ID) 2007, Kirklees ranked as the eighty second most deprived local authority out of 354 in England. Just over 120,000 Kirklees residents (all ages), nearly one in four, lived within the top 20% worst deprived areas, identified from the national ranking of LSOAs (Lower Super Output Areas) by ID 2007 deprivation score. The pattern of deprivation across Kirklees is not evenly distributed, with some localities experiencing higher levels of deprivation than others. Dewsbury had the highest levels of deprivation with 60% of its resident population living within the 20% most deprived areas. Huddersfield and Batley, Birstall & Birkenshaw had 39% and 37% of its residents respectively living in the 20% most deprived areas. These levels of deprivation contrast significantly with the other three localities where the proportion of residents living in the 20% most deprived areas is much lower. These are Mirfield, Denby Dale & Kirkburton, Spen Valley and The Valleys which, respectively, have 14%, 13% and 5% of their residents living in the 20% most deprived areas.
Life expectancy Life expectancy at birth in Kirklees is improving but remains below the national average, significantly so for women. Male life expectancy at birth in 2010 was 77.3 years and female 80.9 years. There are differences across the localities with life expectancy in Dewsbury significantly below the national rate for both men and women. Men in Dewsbury can expect to live nearly five years less than men in the Holme Valley, whilst women in Batley can expect to live four years less than women in the Holme Valley. Infant mortality remains higher than the national rate, particularly in the north of Kirklees.
Health status The health of people in Kirklees is generally worse than the national average. Deaths from heart disease, stroke and cancers in those aged under 75 years remain slightly worse than the averages for England, but are improving. Long term condition management has improved locally and remains a focus given the increasing proportion of those living with these conditions. High infant mortality, particularly in the north of Kirklees has led to a focus on the personal behaviours of women of child bearing age. These women often have more influence on family behaviours, and can focus on eating a healthier diet and being physically active. Smoking levels in Kirklees remain too high and obesity is an area of increasing concern for both children and adults.
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PHARMACEUTICAL NEEDS ASSESSMENT