The Community Foundation for Calderdale (CFFC) has released a new Local Insight Summary Report, offering a clear and honest picture of life across the borough today. Using trusted, independent data, the report helps us better understand the pressures people are facing while also recognising the strength and resilience that Calderdale communities are known for, with the overall aim of highlighting to funders and community partners where support is needed most.
One of the key findings is that more than half of Calderdale’s households face one or more forms of disadvantage, including unemployment, overcrowded housing or poor health. The report also reveals that over 30% of children are growing up in poverty, with many living in lone-parent households where stretched incomes and rising costs make daily life a constant struggle.
Alongside financial struggles, children are also facing health concerns. Child dental health is described as being in crisis, with hospital admissions for under-fives more than twice the national average. When it comes to youth crime, Calderdale’s rate is three times higher than the national average, suggesting that some young people are not getting the support needed to thrive.
Older people and unpaid carers are also under pressure. The report shows that they face higher levels of poverty and a lower quality of life than some other groups in the borough, highlighting a growing need to better support those who are often caring for others while struggling themselves.
While the report highlights real areas of concern, it also shows that Calderdale’s greatest strength is its people. Local communities are active, caring, and deeply involved in helping one another, especially during tough times.
The report also includes reasons to feel hopeful. Calderdale has the highest recycling rate in Yorkshire, and the second highest in the UK. The borough also has lower-than-average carbon emissions, clear signs that local people are committed to a greener, more sustainable future.
Calderdale is home to the most engaged voluntary sector in all of Yorkshire. From food banks, and mental health charities to youth groups and community centres, these organisations are often the first to respond to local needs often on limited budgets.
Nigel Cliffe, Chair of the CFFC Board explained,
“It’s unsurprising to us, and we are proud that Calderdale has the most active and engaged community in Yorkshire. Our borough excels in showing kindness and resilience. However, there are critical areas where we can improve our support for one another in our borough, but I believe that together we can take action and connect people to collaborate to create an inclusive Calderdale where everyone has the support they need to thrive.”
While youth crime is a concern, Calderdale has some of the lowest rates of robbery and anti-social behaviour in Yorkshire and is considered one of the safest places to live in the region.
Steve Duncan, CEO of CFFC added, “This report brings together valuable data on local needs, highlighting where charitable giving can make the biggest difference. By aligning our funding with the realities on the ground, we can support local people and organisations where they need it most. We are excited to use these insights to guide our work and invite our donors, partners and community leaders to do the same.”
The report raises awareness of six areas where support is most needed: Poverty and Disadvantage, Housing and Homelessness, Social Cohesion, Crime, Mental and Physical Health, and Climate.
The report highlights these key areas to encourage discussion and action from everyone invested in Calderdale’s future. From policymakers to residents, community leaders and businesses, let’s make Calderdale a place to thrive.
If you have been moved by any of the issues in this Local Insight Report Summary and wish to discuss how you can contribute to making a difference, please email Steve@cffc.co.uk or call 01422 349700.
