Figures show Rutherglen and Cambuslang among most deprived in Scotland
Jan 2 2013
by Douglas Dickie, Rutherglen Reformer
Parts of Rutherglen and Cambuslang have been named among the most deprived in Scotland.
The shocking statistics were revealed in the 2012 Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation.
It shows parts of Fernhill, Cathkin, Cairns, Whitlawburn, Burnhill, Westburn, Halfway and Springhall, as well as central Rutherglen and an area to the north of Cambuslang Main Street, are in the top 10 per cent most deprived areas in the whole of the country.
Small parts of Whitlawburn and Burnhill were ranked in the top 50 most deprived communities across Scotland.
Rutherglen and Cambuslang were also the most deprived areas in South Lanarkshire.
The index was compiled using data relating to income, employment, education, access to services, housing and also crime.
In all but one of these categories, a community in Rutherglen and Cambuslang was ranked the worst in the region.
A geographical area between Shawfield and Clincarthill was the most deprived in terms of housing and crime.
Burnhill and Bankhead North was the worst for education, Whitlawburn and Greenlees was bottom for employment and Burnside and Springhall was worse off for health.
The news follows on from last week when the Reformer reported nearly a quarter of pupils at Cathkin High School relied on free school meals.
James Kelly MSP said more had to be done to help struggling communities: “We need significant investment to help enable people to better themselves and build a more prosperous future.
“Housing and unemployment are two major issues affecting this constituency and I am calling on action from the SNP government now. We need regeneration developments to deliver the adequate housing people need and provide job opportunities for my constituents.
“We must help local people into education, training and employment if we are to see any improvements and I will work with the local council, central government, community groups and all agencies to improve our communities.”
Deputy First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, said tackling deprivation was a priority for the Government: “The regeneration of our deprived and disadvantaged communities is a key priority for this Government.
“Since 2008, we have invested £121.9million in urban regeneration companies to drive this change, helping to create over 2000 jobs and 900 training places.”
Central Cambuslang was the least deprived area in Rutherglen and Cambuslang.
Ferguslie Park in Paisley was cited the most deprived area in Scotland.
