Growth and development.pdf

1. Profile at 2002Scottish Borders is a medium-sized predominantly rural authority, with a population of 106,900.Expected population changes are in the same direction as national projections, but the decreasein under 5s and 30-44 year olds is likely to be greater than the national average, as is the increasein 60-74 year olds.At 2.7% (January 2002) the unemployment rate is below the Scottish average.Scottish Borders has one of the lowest rates of drugs misuse (1.1% of 15-54 year olds).The crime rate is low and has fallen since 2000 (496 recorded crimes per 10,000 of populationin 2001).In late 2001 the Council introduced a Cabinet and Scrutiny model of operation. Services arelocated in 5 portfolio groups one of which, Lifelong Care, includes social work, environmentalhealth, sport & leisure, community safety and health and safety. Lifelong Learning is the portfoliothat includes education. The Council continues to review its structure.Social work services are managed by a director who carries the responsibility of Chief SocialWork 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+AgeScotlandScottish Borders217