Growth and development.pdf

1. Profile at 2002Highland occupies one third of the landmass of Scotland. It has a widely scattered populationof 208,600.The area faces a larger than average decline in the number of children and younger people andan above average increase in the proportion of households with pensioners; an increase of 34%in the older population is forecast.The unemployment level has fallen but at 4.5% (January 2002) is above the national average.Highland has a low rate of drugs misuse (0.9% of 15-54 year olds).The crime rate is low (578 crimes recorded per 10,000 population in 2001).Highland Council’s Corporate Plan outlines key themes of community planning with partners inthe Highland Well-being Alliance. The plan emphasises the importance of local planning anddelivery of services from within the 8 distinct geographical areas covered by the Council.Housing and Social Work Services report to the same strategic committee. There are SocialWork Committees for each of the 8 areas. Social work services are provided through adedicated department, under a director who is also the chief social work officer.Expected % change in population, 2000-2016,local and national comparisons by age bandPercent403020100-10-20-30-40Under 5 5-14 15-29 30-44 45-59 60-74 75+AgeScotlandHighland143