Health inequalities in Portsmouth – Why they matter

Health inequalities have been around for a long time. Without research and listening to local people, they will not change.

Even with big improvements in medicine and the NHS, health inequalities have stayed the same for over 100 years. These differences are not just about healthcare – they are linked to poverty, housing, and social conditions.

Local decisions and services need to reflect what people really need. If we do not listen to residents and use research to guide action, the next 100 years will look the same.

• Men in the poorest areas live 15 fewer years in good health. Women live 14 fewer years compared to those in the least deprived areas.
• 76% of residents worry about the cost of living. A quarter of low-income households and over a third of disabled residents are skipping meals to save money.
• 2,238 people are homeless or at risk of losing their home.
• Portsmouth is more deprived than nearby areas like Gosport and Havant.

For more information on the statistics around general health in Portsmouth:

• View our Population Health Summary 2021/22 report
• The University of Portsmouth’s The Challenges Facing Portsmouth Residents – Community Research report