The latest Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) was released in 2015. Bradford continued to be ranked the 5th most income deprived district in the England (based on data from August 2012). There are wide variations across the district with 27% of the district’s population living in areas classed as in the 10% most deprived areas in England, and 6% of the population living in areas classed as in the 10% least deprived areas in England. The most income deprived areas are located in and around central Bradford and Keighley and the least deprived areas are located in the Aire and Wharfe valleys and villages to the north and west of central Bradford.
In 2014 (latest available data) 31% of Bradford households were finding it difficult or very difficult to cope on their income. An estimated 16,612 households did not have a direct payment bank account which could put them at risk once Universal Credit is introduced in Bradford. 5 In January 2016 high street banks and building societies launched fee-free basic bank accounts following a deal with the Treasury. These accounts will be available to those who currently do not qualify for a bank account, and there will be no fees charged for missing a direct debit payment or standing order.
[1] The definition includes both families that are out of work and families that are in work but have low earnings (and satisfy means tests)
[2] Department of Energy and Climate Change
