Seven factors are considered in determining the level of deprivation within each area, namely: (1) education skills & training (2) barriers to housing & services (3) health & disability (4) the living environment (5) employment (6) crime and (7) income.

Comparative analysis determines what percentage of a larger area, such as a council ward in Birmingham, falls within the bottom 5%, 10% or 20% of deprived areas in the UK.

This site contains comparative information about deprivation in Birmingham.