Birmingham's stark inequality is laid bare as the city's poorest and wealthiest streets lie just three miles apart. Sparkhill was recently named the poorest area not only in Birmingham but in the whole of England, while Edgbaston, a short drive away, is home to some of the city's most affluent neighborhoods.
Residents of these two areas likely pass each other on the way to work, during the school run, or at the local supermarket, but their daily lives could not be more different. In Sparkhill, many families struggle to put food on the table, with little disposable income left after paying bills. Some rely on food banks despite working two jobs. The area also has some of the highest child poverty rates in the country, meaning children face significant challenges from an early age.
Just three miles down the road in Edgbaston, the picture is completely different. Large houses sit behind secure gates, with multiple luxury cars parked on driveways. Families here may take several holidays a year, and money is rarely a concern.
Mum Aysha Aslam, 34, an IT project manager from Sparkhill, recently shared her struggles: "Myself and my husband are both working parents. As time's gone on, we're getting squeezed more and more. Council tax is increasing in Birmingham year on year, taxes in general are going up, and your bills are going up." She added, "We try not to affect the children. But with clubs and extracurricular activities, it's hard. You get them into activities and then you're like, it is adding up."
Chief Executive of Child Poverty Action Group Alison Garnham said: "Growing up in poverty damages children's everyday lives and future chances. Removal of the two-child limit next month is an important first step in making life better for kids. With 4 million children living in poverty, Government will have to invest in sustained support for children and families to meet its ambition to give every child the best start."
The contrast between Sparkhill and Edgbaston shows how living standards can drastically change within a short distance, highlighting the deep economic divides in Birmingham.
