A recent study conducted by the Independent Commission on Neighbourhoods, chaired by Labour peer Hilary Armstrong, has revealed a concerning trend in England’s poorest communities, which sport 70% more vape shops, off-licences, and bookmakers than their wealthier counterparts. In contrast, these deprived areas are markedly underserved by healthier retail options like cafes and gyms. This disparity raises questions about the overall health and well-being of these communities, which are at risk of becoming further entrenched in cycles of poor nutrition and lifestyle choices due to lack of access to healthier alternatives.

The report emphasizes that government ministers are likely overlooking crucial neighbourhood shopping precincts by primarily focusing their efforts on revitalizing town centres. The study indicates that local shops in deprived areas exhibit nearly double the number of retailers selling unhealthy food, significantly contributing to the challenges faced by residents in these neighborhoods. Furthermore, these areas suffer from higher vacancy rates among shops, further diminishing local employment opportunities and contributing to the decline of community vitality.

Addressing the plight of Britain’s high streets has emerged as a key focus for the government, particularly under the leadership of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. In a recent speech, which was overshadowed by controversies involving Peter Mandelson, Starmer announced an expansion of the "pride in place" program, a £5 billion initiative aimed at investing in 284 deprived areas across the UK. This investment is intended to help communities reclaim boarded-up shops and secure vital local assets, such as libraries and cinemas, to foster community spirit and promote healthier lifestyles among residents.