Executive Summary
Demographics and communities
Hillfields has experienced significant population growth of 14.4% over the past decade, with a population of 13,400 residents. The area has a youthful demographic, with a median age of 24, driven by the presence of students and young adults. While the working-age population has increased, particularly among those aged 35-64, the growth of older residents (65+) has not increased by much compared to the Coventry average. Hillfields is the most densely populated area in the city, with a high prevalence of overcrowded households, larger households (including students), and lone-parent households.
The population is highly diverse, with 79.6% of residents belonging to ethnic minorities, compared to 44.7% citywide. International migration has been a key factor in Hillfields' growth, with 49.5% of residents born outside the UK and 28.5% arriving in the past decade. Linguistic diversity can pose challenges in accessing services, with 7.2% of residents reporting they could not speak English well, which is higher than the city average. Despite these challenges, there is evidence of community involvement and cohesion, although a sense of belonging may be hindered by the area's high population turnover.
Prospects
Avoidable differences in health emerge by the time a child reaches the age of five. In Hillfields, a lower percentage of children (50.3%) achieve a good level of development by age 5 compared to the Coventry (61.1%) and national average (65.2%). There are some factors that may contribute to child development that are measured and the statistics are presented in this profile, although of course these are not the only, or necessarily most important factors. The data indicates areas that could be improved: lower uptake of antenatal care, health visitor reviews, and early years childcare. On a positive note, breastfeeding rates are above average.
The area also has high rates of child poverty, which are significantly above the city average. Educational attainment in Hillfields is below Coventry’s average, though it is not among the lowest in the city. Slightly fewer children meet expected standards in reading, writing, and maths at Key Stage 2, and average attainment at Key Stage 4 is also slightly lower than the city average.
Unemployment and economic inactivity rates are higher than the city average, contributing to lower household incomes. The cost-of-living crisis has affected residents, with 63% reporting frequent financial worries, far exceeding the city average of 40%. Additionally, food insecurity is prevalent, with only 47% of residents stating their households always have enough food.
While internet access is generally available, digital exclusion remains a challenge, particularly in deprived areas. Community organisations provide vital support to address these issues, offering education and resources to vulnerable residents.
Housing and environment
Satisfaction with the local area in Hillfields has declined significantly since 2018 and remains below the city average. There are indications of poorer than average air quality in the area. Low homeownership rates, coupled with high levels of private renting, contribute to a sense of instability. Although house prices remain lower than average, recent increases have heightened affordability concerns, and homelessness rates are higher than in other areas.
Health and well-being in Hillfields is further threatened by fuel poverty, with a substantial proportion of households struggling to afford adequate heating, leading to increased risks of physical and mental health issues, especially during colder months. Efforts to improve social housing and community services are underway but require ongoing attention and resources.
Crime rates in Hillfields are significantly higher than city average, higher than all other neighbourhoods in the city, only lower than the city centre. Violent crime is especially prevalent, contributing to widespread feelings of insecurity. Local authorities, housing associations, and law enforcement are collaborating on initiatives to improve safety, tackle issues like fly-tipping, and enhance street lighting to create a safer and more welcoming environment.
Health and wellbeing
Life expectancy in Hillfields for both males and females is lower than the rest of the city overall, the gap being particularly high for males living here. Health inequalities across the city mean that people in more deprived parts of the city not only live shorter lives, but also spend a greater proportion of their shorter lives in poor health. This is the case in Hillfields.
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored these disparities, as Hillfields, a diverse and deprived area, experienced higher than average COVID-19 mortality rates. Despite this, vaccine uptake remains low, with fewer residents receiving COVID-19 and flu vaccinations, and some child vaccination rates falling below the recommended threshold.
While there aren’t many GP practices located in Hillfields itself, there are many nearby in neighbouring areas and indications are that access to GPs is relatively good and satisfaction with the practices local residents are likely to use are relatively good; although there are indications that satisfaction with local GPs has reduced in recent years, as it has across the city and England overall.
Lifestyle factors present a mixed picture. Smoking rates in Hillfields are relatively low, which is a positive health indicator. However, while residents acknowledge the importance of healthy eating, dietary habits overall appear to be poorer compared to other areas. Additionally, levels of physical activity are lower than average, which could further contribute to health issues in the community. These factors collectively highlight the ongoing health challenges facing Hillfields, despite some positive lifestyle habits.