'I've lived in Walsall all my life, and it's not as bad as you think': Reporter Daniel Walton gives his take on the UK's 'most deprived town'
Living in Walsall isn't a breeze, but I wouldn't call it the 'most deprived area in the UK'.
New figures have dubbed Walsall as the 'most deprived town in the UK'; however, as a resident for over 30 years, I don't necessarily think that is true.
The figures, released as part of the Demos-PwC Good Growth for Cities Index 2025, say that Walsall is the most deprived place in the UK, as well as being ranked as the second least healthy high street, and third for having the worst job market.
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However, I think the figures don't reflect the perception of my fellow Walsallians.
The town has a long and detailed history that the figures don't reflect, and a sense of pride and belonging that can only be achieved through living in an industrial town.
While residents here believe that the town does require some improvement, they love it nonetheless. A Walsallian is always a Walsallian.
