More than average number of depressed people in West Berkshire

Thatcham is the most depressing place to live in West Berkshire according to new figures.

And there are more depressed people in West Berkshire than average numbers for England.

A report to the district’s health board says an estimated 12.6 per cent of GP patients aged 18 and over in the Newbury Parliamentary Constituency – which roughly covers the area of West Berkshire – were recorded on GP registers as having depression in 2019/20.

This compares to a figure of 11.5 per cent for England and 12 per cent for the South East region.

Neighbourhoods in West Berkshire with above average estimated rates for depression include Thatcham Town (20.6 per cent), Thatcham West (19.6 per cent) and Thatcham North (19.6 per cent).

The report adds not all of those living with depression will have sought help and have depression recorded on their records.

It was also noted that an estimated 0.7 per cent of GP patients in the Newbury constituency are recorded as having schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and psychosis.

And 3,277 people have dementia.

The report, which is looking into pharmacy provision in the district, says the number of people living with dementia in West Berkshire is expected to increase significantly over the period 2013-2036, as the area is set to experience population growth of people aged 65 and over, who will be increasingly likely to live alone.

This, says the report, will put pressure on the delivery of health care services, particularly as this population growth is expected to occur in rural areas. It added that community pharmacists are well placed to assist in the early identification of dementia, as well as to help patients to manage their medicines.