We are pleased to introduce our ‘Buckinghamshire: Uncovered’ report series, where we will lift the lid on some of the challenges faced in a county that are too often masked by reliance on statistical averages and pockets of extreme wealth. By delving into the data and statistics, as well as personal anecdotes and stories, we will paint a comprehensive picture of the county today.
Join us as we uncover the complexities and realities of life within Buckinghamshire and these disparities compared to the wider UK.
Creative Health
Whilst Buckinghamshire’s historic image is an affluent one rich in heritage and culture, the contrast in our county exists just as much in arts and culture as it does within any category. This report seeks to understand the barriers, challenges and opportunities surrounding arts and culture in Bucks; specifically in terms of creative health and the impact of the arts as a vehicle for health and wellbeing.
Youth, Skills & Employment
Despite a strong economic and business-focused track record, there are underlying skills challenges facing many children and young people. This report seeks to understand the key obstacles facing Buckinghamshire’s future workforce. By sharing key statistics and spotlights on successful local initiatives, we hope this insight will inform decisions and highlight these areas.
Homelessness
Everyone deserves a warm and safe home. However, not everyone currently has equal opportunity and access to suitable and affordable housing in Buckinghamshire. Inability to access housing that is truly affordable leads to homelessness and the numbers impacted are increasing to pre-pandemic levels.
Air Quality
Air quality is an integral part of our wider environment and ecosystems and can have a direct affect on personal wellbeing and health. In this report we delve into understanding the impact our air quality is having on the Buckinghamshire environment, actions being taken to improve things and what more we could be doing.
Cost of Living Crisis
Buckinghamshire is often portrayed as an affluent county, but in reality the national picture of the Cost of Living crisis is clearly reflected across our county. This report provides a deeper understanding of geographical inequalities, financial insecurities, housing costs, energy and food poverty being experienced everyday by the people who call Bucks home.
Our Ageing Population
Older people in Buckinghamshire play an intrinsic, vibrant, and pivotal role across our county. This report uncovers statistics relating to our older population in Buckinghamshire, makes comparisons to national data, highlights future challenges, and showcases opportunities within our communities that empower the lives of our older population.
Introduction report – 2023
Buckinghamshire: Uncovered is powered by the Bucks Data Exchange, using data to evidence local needs and challenges. We will also be talking to people in our communities, helping to bring these issues to life. Funded by The National Lottery Community Fund, this project is a long-term commitment by Heart of Bucks to listen, engage, and act to support our county.
Full report – 2020
Heart of Bucks have collected local and national data on Buckinghamshire in order to make comparisons within the county. In addition to informing us and our supporters of the needs locally, we also hope our findings will help other local organisations make Buckinghamshire a better place to live, work and take part in leisure activities.
