Growth and development.pdf

1. Profile at 2002West Dunbartonshire is a small, mainly urban authority with a population of 94,600. Povertyand deprivation heavily influence demands on all services.Over the next 14 years the population is expected to decline by 5.5%. The over 75 populationis predicted to fall only very slightly, in contrast to large increases nationally. The area faces alarger than average decrease in the number of children.At 6.3% (January 2002) the unemployment rate is now the second highest in Scotland.West Dunbartonshire has an above average rate of problem drug misuse (2.1% of 15-54 yearolds).The rate of crime has fallen since 2000 and, at 895 recorded crimes per 10,000 of population in2001, is the seventh highest of Scottish authorities.Social work services are provided through a Department of Social Work and Housing under adirector, who is also the chief social work officer. Two Health Boards provide health services inWest Dunbartonshire – Argyll and Clyde covering some 52% of the population and GreaterGlasgow the remaining 48%.Expected % change in population, 2000-2016,local and national comparisons by age bandPercent2520151050-5-10-15-20-25-30Under 5 5-14 15-29 30-44 45-59 60-74 75+AgeScotlandWest Dunbartonshire259