A sobering new study has revealed that Birmingham is home to all six of England's poorest areas by average disposable income.
Key Findings
The research, based on average disposable income across neighbourhoods, found Sparkhill North to be the poorest place in England. Households there have just under £20,800 left after paying bills and essentials. Many families struggle with basic costs, with some parents skipping meals to feed their children.
East and south east Birmingham areas dominate the poverty list. Sparkhill mum Aysha Aslam, 34, told BirminghamLive: "Myself and my husband are both working parents. As time's gone on, we're getting squeezed more and more."
The Poorest Areas
The six poorest areas are:
- Sparkhill North
- Sparkbrook South
- Small Heath Park
- Saltley East
- Washwood Heath
- Bordesley Green
Other deprived Birmingham areas include Aston, Lozells and Handsworth.
Wider Context
The study shows a growing gap between rich and poor, with wealthy households having almost £87,000 more disposable income annually. Just 1% of West Midlands households are in the national top 10% for disposable income, compared to 45% of London neighbourhoods.
