A child's postcode can be a predictor of their life chances
Children growing up in some parts of the UK have a postcode that is a clearer predictor of their life chances than their parents' income or their own qualifications, a study has found.
The research by the UK's Office for National Statistics (ONS) found that children living in deprived areas are more likely to experience poor health, education and employment outcomes.
“We found that the postcode itself was a significant predictor of life chances, over and above any other factor.”
− Professor Danny Dorling, University of Oxford
The study used data from the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD), which measures the relative deprivation of small areas in the UK.
- Children living in the 10% most deprived areas have a 10 percentage point lower probability of achieving good GCSEs at age 16.
- Those living in the most deprived areas have a 40 percentage point lower probability of achieving a degree at university.
- They are also more likely to experience poor mental and physical health, including higher rates of obesity and smoking.
Professor Danny Dorling, a co-author of the study, said: “We found that the postcode itself was a significant predictor of life chances, over and above any other factor.”
Respiratory disease, for example, is almost four times more common in the 10% most deprived areas than in the least deprived.
The authors concluded that the postcode is a “proxy” for a range of social and economic factors that affect life chances.
They recommended that policymakers use the IMD to target interventions in areas of high deprivation.
“This could involve focusing on specific schools, hospitals, or community services in these areas, and working with local residents and businesses to improve the local environment and opportunities.”
− Professor Danny Dorling, University of Oxford
The study's findings have significant implications for policymakers and practitioners working in education, health and social care.
Resuming the work of our parents and grandparents, we must work to build a more equitable society for all, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their postcode.
Author's summary: The postcode can be a significant predictor of life chances, and addressing deprivation in specific areas through targeted interventions is crucial for improving outcomes in education, health, and social care.
More News
- Leonardo DiCaprio's stepmom and dad steal the show
- Leonardo – Shaping the Future of Global Security and Innovation
- Toughest Decisions for the CFB Playoff Committee Heading into Selection Day
- 'Not fair' - Russell criticises McLaren's Abu Dhabi team order stance
- George Russell conseille Max Verstappen : « Il n'est pas nécessaire de piloter comme un voyou »
- George Russell Stuns Title Contenders to Top Decisive FP3
- George Russell: Older me can’t envy Lando Norris’ F1 title, he deserves it
- DiCaprio says an acting career should be ‘A Marathon, Not a Sprint’
- Leonardo DiCaprio – biographie
- 3 Million for One Day… Yet DiCaprio Said No: The Actor Refuses the Most Anticipated Sequel of His Career