As the largest metropolitan borough in England and Europe, Birmingham significantly outpaces other major cities like Leeds and Manchester in population size. Over the past 15 years, the city has undergone substantial development, driven by strategic investment, enhanced transport infrastructure such as HS2, and proactive civic leadership. This transformation has revitalised the city centre and strengthened over 70 local centres, which serve as essential community hubs. Understanding the needs of Birmingham’s diverse and growing population is central to maintaining an inclusive and vibrant city, and this is reflected in the city’s commitment to evidence based planning through tools like the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA).
With a population of approximately 1.166 million in 2023, Birmingham is one of the youngest and most diverse cities in England. Over half of its residents identify as Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic, and this figure rises to 66% among school aged children. However, the city faces deep rooted challenges, ranking 7th in national deprivation indices, with high levels of child poverty, fuel poverty, and reliance on welfare support. As Birmingham’s population ages – projected to increase by 30% in the over 65 group by 2031 – demand for social care will intensify, especially in areas affected by health inequalities. The city’s designation as a City of Sanctuary underscores its commitment to equity and inclusion, aiming to support and empower migrant and refugee communities while recognising their contributions to Birmingham’s social and economic fabric.
Birmingham’s shared vision, shaped through extensive consultation with over 1,500 citizens and partners across sectors, sets out an ambitious future for the city. It acknowledges our city’s contrasts – between thriving central areas and communities facing persistent poverty – and aims to create a city that works for everyone. By 2035, Birmingham aspires to be Europe’s leading city for young people and a globally recognised Anti Racist City. This vision is supported by strategic frameworks such as the Health and Wellbeing Board Strategy and the Integrated Care Strategy, which seek to improve life expectancy and health outcomes through collaborative, locality-based approaches. Birmingham’s inclusion in the Neighbourhood Health Pioneer Programme further validates its integrated efforts in delivering the NHS 10-year plan.