Bracknell Forest has been highlighted as one of the best places in the UK to be born, grow up and grow old in a national index.
The borough has been placed fourth in the recently published UK Better Lives Index. As a result, the borough had the spotlight shone on its success earlier this month at a national event.
The council’s chief executive, Susan Halliwell, showcased the borough’s success at the launch of the index by the International Longevity Centre on 3 November.
The index looks at lots of data and ranks areas based on 9 key indicators:
- life expectancy at birth
- child poverty rate (children in low-income households)
- pollution (total emissions per capita)
- economic activity rate (local labour market, economic activity of adults)
- gross household disposable income (household income after paying any taxes and receiving any benefits)
- housing costs (local average house prices to median earnings)
- economic inactivity rate, 50-64
- life expectancy at 65
- avoidable mortality (age standardised)
Based on the data, Bracknell Forest ranked fourth in the UK behind Hart, Kingston Upon Thames and Epsom and Ewell. It was the only area in Berkshire ranked in the top 10.
Susan Halliwell, chief executive, said:
“We know there is much to celebrate about the borough, from our good and excellent schools to our buoyant economy and expansive green, open spaces. This data shows that there is even more to celebrate as the borough is officially one of the best places in the UK to be born, grow up and grow old. It was a privilege to showcase the borough’s successes at the launch of the UK Better Lives Index, making others aware of what we already know – that Bracknell Forest is a truly great place to live, work and play!”
Cllr Mary Temperton, leader of Bracknell Forest Council, said:
“To be placed fourth in the UK Better Lives Index shows that we do live in a wonderful borough. A borough that is prosperous, has good outcomes and opportunities for people of all ages, is healthy and active, and is relatively free from deep seated poverty; the type of poverty that affects and shortens lives.
“It’s a real testament to the Bracknell Forest community. However, we know there is always more we can do, and we are committed to making improvements where we can to ensure everyone lives, happy, healthy, content and long lives."
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