Inequalities in Britain run broad and deep – there are gaps in outcomes both between places and within them. To a large extent, where you live, not what you do, will determine how much you will earn, what education you can offer to your children, how healthy you will be, and even how long you will live.

Alongside the individual human cost, there is also the economic cost. Recent labour market statistics show that in areas where people are in poor health or lack the necessary skills, they are less able to work and contribute to their local economy. Social inequalities are therefore holding back local and national economic growth, which is why tackling them is a priority for all major political parties.