New data reveals the shocking scale of health inequalities across the UK

We’ve recently teamed up with the Office for National Statistics (ONS) to produce new data and found that life expectancy at birth in some parts of the UK – including Glasgow North East, Liverpool Riverside, Bradford East, Manchester Rusholme, and Newcastle Upon-Tyne East and Wallsend – is among the lowest in the country. In fact, these areas are in the bottom 10% when it comes to life expectancy across the UK.

The Health Foundation’s research shows that Glasgow North East has the lowest life expectancy of any constituency in the UK, with people there living on average just 74.2 years. That’s a full 10.5 years shorter than the healthiest areas, and the gap is only getting worse. Explore their interactive map of the data here.

But there’s hope. 67 MPs have now joined Health Equals’ Parliamentary Champions Network, pledging to campaign with us to close this life expectancy gap. This group, which spans all political parties, is working to make sure that the key factors influencing health are at the heart of national policy, so that everyone in the UK has the chance to live longer, healthier lives.

Paul McDonald, Chief Campaigns Officer at Health Equals commented:

For the first time we can compare life expectancy at a constituency level across the UK, showing MPs and voters the alarming scale of health inequalities.  Our health is shaped by the world around us – from the money in our pockets, to quality homes that are warm and safe, stable jobs and neighbourhoods with green space and clean air. Yet, these essential building blocks are not accessible to everyone. We are calling for a cross-government action plan, so everyone has the best chance of good health, no matter who they are or where they are born, work and live.

Darren McGarvey, social commentator on poverty and inequality in Scotland and supporter of our #MakeHealthEqual campaign, said:

These statistics won’t surprise anyone – not least the working class people who live in these communities. Communities which are perpetually viewed through the lens of social deprivation, not because local people are somehow destined to develop health problems, but because they have been badly let down by decision makers over successive generations. No matter how hard these people work, how well they organise their finances, or indeed, how many lifestyle changes they make, these trends will continue unless a new radical approach to health is adopted.

Maureen Burke MP for Glasgow North East and one of our Parliamentary Champions, said:

I am deeply upset by the news that Glasgow North East has the lowest life expectancy of anywhere in the UK. Although absolutely shocking, these statistics sadly do not come as a surprise. Glasgow North East is a constituency with a higher than average poverty rate, rising housing insecurity and poor health outcomes. I grew up and live in this community and sadly know the reality of losing loved ones long before their time. Alongside UK Government colleagues, I work to ensure that every available step is taken to reverse this trend in life expectancy, helping my constituents to live healthier, happier and more secure lives.