Group maps child poverty in Britain

LONDON, Feb. 20 (UPI) -- A map prepared by a coalition of advocacy groups shows a wide disparity in child poverty rates in areas in Britain.

The map is based on parliamentary districts, the Daily Mirror reported. The highest rate, 47 percent, was in Manchester Central, while five districts had a rate of only 5 percent.

Manchester was followed by other urban areas: Belfast West in Northern Ireland and Glasgow North East in Scotland at 43 percent. The Ladywood district in Birmingham, Bethnal Green and Bow in London and the Riverside District in Liverpool had rates of 42 percent.

Sheffield Hallam, believed to be the wealthiest district in northern England, Kenilworth and Southam in Warwickshire, Haltemprice and Howden in the East Riding of Yorkshire, South Northamptonshire and Rushcliffe in Nottinghamshire had poverty rates of 5 percent. Sheffield Hallam is represented by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, leader of the Liberal Democrats.

The map was prepared by End Child Poverty. Enver Solomon, chairman of the campaign, predicted cuts in government benefits will increase the rate of child poverty and leave many families stuck.

"The huge disparities that exist across the country have become more entrenched and are now an enduring reality as many more children are set to become trapped in long term poverty and disadvantage," he said.