Contents

Bexley's Population

Census 2021

The 2021 census estimated that the total population of Bexley is now 246,500, an increase of 6.3% from 232,000 in 2011.1 The population is estimated to further grow to 277,000 by 2030 and become more ethnically diverse, with the most growth anticipated in the north of the borough.

Census 2021

Across Bexley the demography of the population differs. Broadly speaking, Bexley has an ageing and relatively affluent population towards the south and a relatively younger, ethnically diverse, and more deprived population towards the north.2

For much more detailed information on Bexley’s people and communities visit the Bexley Data Hub.

Deprivation and health

Overall, Bexley has comparatively low levels of deprivation overall; it is the ninth least deprived local authority in London. However, there is considerable variation in deprivation within the borough with some areas in Bexley in the 20% most deprived areas in England. These areas are clustered towards the north of the borough, with some pockets of deprivation in other areas, such as Sidcup.3

On average, life expectancy at birth in Bexley is good, 83.8 years for women and 79.9 years for men (at or above the England averages). However, there are inequalities in life expectancy at birth in Bexley of 5.4 years for women and 6.9 years for men.4

For our strategy to have the greatest impact our actions need to be sensitive to the differences in demographics, deprivation, life experiences, and health outcomes in different parts of the borough, with a strong focus on reducing health inequalities.

Bexley’s Local Care Networks (LCNs)

Bexley’s LCNs are part of Bexley’s LCP. They bring together a range of partners to identify the health and care needs of the population and key actions at a more local, neighbourhood level.

There are three LCNs in Bexley:

  • North Bexley, 98,500 residents (including wards: Thamesmead East, Belvedere, Northumberland Heath, Erith, Slade Green & Northend, Barnehurst, Crayford)
  • Clocktower, 79,300 residents (including wards: West Heath, East Wickham, Falconwood & Welling, Crook Log, Bexleyheath)
  • Frognal, 68,500 residents (including wards: Blackfen & Lamorbey, Blendon & Penhill, Longlands, Sidcup, St Mary’s & St James)
  1. Office for National Statistics (ONS): How life has changed in Bexley: Census 2021
  2. Bexley Wellbeing Partnership, North Bexley, Clocktower, and Frognal Local Care Network Profiles.
  3. English indices of deprivation 2019
  4. Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID): Public Health Outcomes Framework