WIMD indicator data updates

The latest edition of WIMD was published on 27 November 2019. Some indicator data split by age was published in January 2020. In 2021 we will publish GP recorded chronic conditions and mental health conditions split by age.

We have now reviewed the potential for updating indicator data during 2021. Taking into consideration the limited usefulness of possible updates, other uncertainties and resource implications (for data suppliers and for Welsh Government), we will not update any indicator data in 2021. We will continue publishing 2019-based outputs, offer WIMD awareness sessions, and undertake longer-term development work on key indicators ahead of the next index update (timing not yet determined).

In 2021 we are continuing to publish follow-on outputs for WIMD 2019. Please refer to our WIMD 2019 list of outputs for a full list of WIMD 2019 publications, including what is to come.

If you want to receive notification of publication updates for WIMD, please email stats.inclusion@gov.wales to subscribe.

We will not be updating any WIMD indicators in 2020 for the reasons outlined below.

• Most of the data updates we could make would relate to the year 2019 or before and therefore to a period prior to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This means an indicator update would be of limited value, with only a small amount of change compared to data included in WIMD 2019 and without gaining any insight into the likely significant change in the underlying picture as a result of the pandemic. The indicator data that we would have looked to update (for example, repeat absenteeism, health conditions, benefit and universal credit claimants) will be impacted by the pandemic and/or lockdown measures and updating them going forward will need thorough review.
• Updating indicator data is resource intensive, and we currently do not have capacity to undertake this work due to re-deployment of resources as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Our indicator data suppliers have also experienced a change in capacity and priorities due to the pandemic, which will impact on their ability to work with us to specify and supply new data.

In 2021 we will review all WIMD indicator data and decide which, if any, can and should be updated by the end of the year.