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What factors impact migrant density among UK Parishes?

What factors impact migrant density among UK Parishes?

Updated: 29th Jan 2023

The United Kingdom is a diverse and multicultural country, with people from all over the world making it their home. This diversity is reflected in the makeup of local communities, with some parishes having higher migrant indicators than others. In this article, we will take a closer look at the parishes with the highest migrant indicators in the UK, focusing on three specific statistics.

First on our list is Newton St. Loe Parish near Bath. This Parish has the highest percentage of people who had a different UK address within the last 12 months, with 79.3% of its population of 1,372. The reason for this is likely the high student population in the area, as the Parish includes Bath Spa University within its boundaries. This is a prime example of how universities can have a significant impact on the demographics of a local community.

The second highest parish in terms of people having a different UK address within the last 12 months is Heslington Parish near York. Like Newton St. Loe, this Parish also includes a university campus within its boundaries - York University. This is again indicative of the influence that universities can have on the makeup of a local community.

The third statistic we will look at is the percentage of people in a parish who have an address outside of the UK within the last 12 months. Great Bricett Parish in Suffolk tops this list, with 28.1% of its population having an address outside of the UK in the last 12 months. This can be explained by the presence of RAF Wattisham in the Parish, which is currently used by the United States Army Air Force. This is an example of how military bases can also have a significant impact on the demographics of a local community.

There are a variety of reasons why migrant indicators can vary greatly amongst UK parishes. Some of the main factors include:

Economic opportunities: Some parishes may have a higher number of job opportunities, which can attract people from other areas or even other countries. For example, a parish with a strong manufacturing or service sector may have a higher number of migrant workers.

Educational institutions: Universities and colleges can also have a significant impact on the demographics of a local community. Parishes that include a university or college campus within their boundaries may have a higher number of international students, who can contribute to the diversity of the parish.

Military bases: Military bases can also attract a diverse population, as service personnel and their families may come from all over the world. This can lead to a higher number of migrants in a parish that includes a military base.

Historical and cultural significance: Some parishes may have historical or cultural significance that attracts a diverse population. For example, a parish with a high concentration of people from a particular country or culture may have a higher number of migrants from that country or culture.

Proximity to major cities: Parishes that are close to major cities may have a higher number of migrants, as they may be attracted to the greater job and educational opportunities available in these cities.

Government policies: Government policies can also play a role in shaping the demographics of local communities. For example, if a parish is designated as a "resettlement area" for refugees, it may have a higher number of migrants from specific countries.

Overall, there is no single reason why migrant indicators can vary amongst UK parishes. It is a combination of various factors that can contribute to the diversity of local communities. Understanding these factors can help us better understand and appreciate the unique makeup of different parishes in the UK.

Author: Staff Writer