For example, data on many national targets for tackling deprivation is only available at the local authority level - areas that are much larger than a neighbourhood. This is because data is not yet available that would allow targeting at small area level, such as wards and neighbourhoods. This information gap has led directly to policy failures and 'reinventing the wheel' as knowledge has not been disseminated to those who need it.

The Neighbourhood Statistics project aims to fill the gap by developing a comprehensive database of information and statistics available on the internet. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is taking this forward, working closely with the NRU, the Local Government Association, government departments and other partners. It will be particularly valuable for managing the effect of the strategy on different ethnic groups.

Neighbourhood Statistics will link to other data collection initiatives including Quality of Life indicators produced by the Government working with the LGA and the Improvement and Development Agency (IDeA)

This problem was tackled by the PAT 18 REPORT which can be accessed below

PAT 18

Other useful links for further information are:

Office of National Statistics
www.statistics.gov.uk

Indices of Deprivation
www.regeneration.dtlr.gov.uk/research/id2000/index.htm