Communities in Derry are being failed by persistent deprivation

SDLP Economy Spokesperson Sinéad McLaughlin MLA has said newly published research underscores the deep and persistent inequalities that continue to impact communities across the North, particularly in Derry and Belfast.

The research, conducted by Queen’s University Belfast, reveals that areas within Derry and Strabane and Belfast experience the highest levels of deprivation across the UK, with Northern Ireland having a greater share of severely deprived communities than any other UK nation.

Ms McLaughlin said: ''It is shameful that in 2025, the North still contains the UK’s most deprived communities — and that Derry and Strabane are once again top of that list. These findings confirm what many of us already know: too many of our people are trapped in a cycle of disadvantage, where poor health, limited opportunities and lack of investment continue to hold entire communities back.''

''We cannot accept this as inevitable. This is the result of political choices — a legacy of underinvestment in places like the North West, and a failure to deliver the kind of sustained regional development that is needed to create real opportunity.''

''The fact that health outcomes are also among the worst across these islands points to the wider social cost of economic inequality. It affects life expectancy, wellbeing, and the potential of every child growing up in these areas.''

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''That’s why I am bringing forward legislation to deliver a new Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Strategy — to drive forward targeted economic development in the areas that need it most. My Bill will place legal duties on government departments to work together to close the gap in regional inequalities and support people into work with the right investment in skills, infrastructure, and good employment.''

''Derry is full of talent, resilience and potential. What we need now is the political will to match that potential with opportunity.''