Progress and Pressure: Understanding Economic and Social Change in England’s Neighbourhoods

Introduction

The research examines long-term economic and social change in neighbourhoods across England. It explores how places are improving or falling behind, and why this matters for communities. The report aims to inform national and local policymakers, funders and practitioners working in disadvantaged areas.

Findings

The research found that economic growth has not benefited all neighbourhoods equally. Some areas have improved, but many face persistent or growing disadvantages.

The research found that:

• poverty remains concentrated in certain neighbourhoods

• employment growth has not always reduced low pay or insecurity

• housing pressures are increasing in many areas

• public services face rising demand in disadvantaged places

• inequalities between and within neighbourhoods remain significant

• improvements in disadvantaged neighbourhoods during the 2000s were partly reversed in the 2010s

The report shows that local conditions are influenced by national policy, changes in the economy and shifts in population. It calls for long-term investment in places facing ongoing disadvantages.