Eagle Radio discovers Hidden Surrey
Although Surrey is one of the wealthiest counties, with the majority of its population enjoying a high quality of life, there are in fact many pockets of deprivation.
Did you know that in one ward in Woking – nearly 40 % of people can’t read and write?
Did you know that in Guildford, you’re only two pay checks away from being homeless and there are about 30 people sleeping rough every night here?
Did you know that in Ockford Ridge in Godalming, Park Barn, Westborough and Slyfield in Guildford, Maybury Sheerwater in Woking and parts of Ash are in the top 25 percent of the most deprived areas in the country?
Did you know that in Surrey, we raise £5.5 billion in taxes a year – but we only get £205 back per person for services, compared to a national average of £595?
On Eagle Radio this week we'll be taking a look at HIDDEN SURREY, and we'll be talking to organisations that are trying to change the cycle of deprivation.
Click here to find out how to donate to the Hidden Surrey Fund.
This week on air :
| Day 1 | We'll be looking at literacy rates in Woking - and be talking to local charity Lets Read. |
| Day 2 | We'll be taking a look at Income and Jobs in Surrey and talking to local charity Skillway in Godalming. |
| Day 3 | It's off to Stoke to meet charity Meeting Point, which helps lonely and isolated people as well as the elderly. |
| Day 4 | It's over to Guildford Action, who'll take us through the housing crisis in our area. As a special Lovin' Your Work, our very own Kim Robson will be out and about collecting Sleeping Bags. If you can donate one, call 01483 560003 and we'll come and collect it live on air! |
| Day 5 | We'll be taking a look at those with Disabilities, and talking to Guildford charity Disability Challenges. |
Literacy rates in Woking
One of the most telling factors of deprivation is low literacy levels. And here in Maybury, over 40 % of people aren't able to read and write.
And by the government's own statistics Maybury and Sheerwater in Woking is in the top 13 % of the most deprived areas in England.
To tackle the problem Steve Thomas set up Let's read - helping young children who may be falling behind.
Elizabeth Williams went to New Monument School in Maybury to meet him:
