Growth and development.pdf

1. Profile at 2002West Lothian is a medium-sized authority with a population of 156,700.The local population has grown more rapidly than in any other authority in Scotland and hasdoubled in the last 45 years. The proportion of households with pensioners was 25% in the1991 Census – far lower than the Scottish average of 33%. The over 75 year old population ishowever projected to increase by almost forty per cent over the next 14 years. West Lothiancurrently has the youngest population in Scotland and the rate of under 5’s is projected toincrease by a further 1.8%.At 4.3% (January 2002), unemployment is similar to the Scottish average.At 1.2% of 15-54 year olds West Lothian has a drugs misuse rate well under average for Scotland.The crime rate has fallen and is now slightly below the national average (734 crimes wererecorded per 10,000 population in 2001).The Council undertook an organisational review in 2001/02 to improve the effectiveness of itsservice delivery. The review has led to the appointment of a Head of Service, Social Policy, whoreports to one of 3 Corporate Managers. Social Policy includes social work, social strategy,housing and health; the Head of Service also undertakes the duties of chief social work officer.Expected % change in population, 2000-2016,local and national comparisons by age bandPercent50403020100-10-20-30Under 5 5-14 15-29 30-44 45-59 60-74 75+AgeScotlandWest Lothian267