Growth and development.pdf

1. Profile at 2002South Ayrshire is a medium sized, mainly rural authority with a population of 113,900.The local population is predicted to fall marginally (by 3.3%) to 2016. There is likely to be asmaller than average decrease in the under fives, whilst the 15-44 year old population isexpected to reduce in line with the national rate. The older population is set to increase but byless than the national projection.At 4.8% (January 2002), the unemployment rate is slightly above the national average. 16% ofwards in the area have unemployment rates of more than twice the Scottish average.South Ayrshire has one of the lower rates of drug misuse (0.8% of 15-54 year olds).At 692 per 10,000 population the recorded crime rate is lower than the national average, buthas increased slightly since 2000.The Department of Social Work, Housing and Health, is one of 4 departments of the Councilwhich was restructured in spring 2001. The Department is led by a Director with support fromHeads of Social Work, Housing and Social Justice.Expected % change in population, 2000-2016,local and national comparisons by age bandPercent2520151050-5-10-15-20-25Under 5 5-14 15-29 30-44 45-59 60-74 75+AgeScotlandSouth Ayrshire233