"It's Dire Here!" - From Paradise to Deprivation: The Decline of Blackpool

Real Britannia Episode 1:
Life in Blackpool may seem like a dream with its iconic amusement park and beautiful beach, but behind the tourist attractions lies a grim reality.
This coastal town in Northern England has earned a reputation for having the lowest life expectancy rates and the worst quality of health in the country.
While the rest of England has seen life expectancy steadily increase over the past 30 years, Blackpool has experienced a significant decline. Men in England can expect to live until they are 79, while for women, it's 83.
In Blackpool, however, life expectancy is nearly five years shorter for both sexes. The town's healthy life expectancy, the number of years people can expect to live in good health, is also well below the national average. So, what has led to this crisis?
According to Arif Rajpura, the town's director of public health, there are multiple factors contributing to Blackpool's health inequality. The gap between Blackpool and the rest of the country has widened over the years, and it's a challenge that requires the collective effort of the council, the NHS, and the government.
Rajpura highlights issues such as the price of alcohol, obesity, and junk food advertising as factors that need to be addressed. Additionally, Blackpool faces an opiate crisis, with the highest rate of deaths from drug misuse in the country. The loss of young lives to overdoses has a significant impact on overall life expectancy.
TalkTV visits the town where people die youngest and eight of the ten poorest neighbourhoods in Britain are. We spoke to the locals about what has gone wrong.
Blackpool's future hangs in the balance. The town's unique charm and its people are what make it special. Without safeguarding their health and well-being, the very essence of Blackpool is at risk.
The town's residents are hopeful for a brighter future, but they need support and action from all stakeholders to overcome the current crisis. The time for change is now, and Blackpool's survival depends on it.
After going to press, a Government spokesperson responded:
“We do not recognise these figures. We have already committed £141 million of Levelling Up funding to create more local jobs and regenerate Blackpool’s town centre for future generations to reap the rewards.
“Last year, we dedicated £40 million to deliver new leisure facilities, create jobs, boost tourism, and help level up Blackpool through the relocation of the town’s Magistrates and County Courts. This is estimated to create 1,000 jobs.
“We want to spread opportunity more equally across the country and ensure councils like Blackpool have the resources they need to deliver vital services for local people and businesses. That is why Blackpool Council’s core budget has seen a real-terms increase for 2023/24 - an extra £45.5 million since 2015/16.
#blackpool #blackpoolpleasurebeach #blackpoolilluminations #britishpolitics #british #britain #britainnews #mentalhealth
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[@davidaston1644]

Its not just Blackpool, its really the UK.

[@002lisamarie]

Not all of the UK. A lot of it is nice.

[@Zerpentsa6598]

Yes. The UK is literally collapsing with 147 schools likely to collapse if UK doesn't borrow more to repair them.

[@AJ-xv7oh]

@@002lisamarie Yes, alot of the posh rural areas where all the Tories live.

[@carolevans5285]

Blackpool does need help it has done for years. There lovely people ❤️

[@lolabob3767]

@@002lisamariewhere is still nice?

[@truckerfromreno]

English working class are the most oppressed and discriminated against group in the country. Their own country.

[@mitzy123]

Nonsense.

[@justso1823]

I agree their treated like 2 rate people

[@Brs-od8mx]

​@@mitzy123do elaborate

[@starofdavid9919]

And Scottish.

[@THABONEZONE]

@@mitzy123 not really nonsense when a lot of people are better of on benefits illegal immigrants get temporary housing whilst homeless British men aren’t priority to local housing authority’s which means they won’t be housed and not to mention working class familys are massively under represented in the uk stomped out in pursuit of political correctness and multiculturalism

[@moonagedaydream4489]

There is a very popular Blackpool KZbinr, Stephen Cheatley, who has a channel called A Walk On The Wild Side. On Stephen's channel he isn't afraid to show the deprivation in Blackpool. People are quick to criticise Stephen for showing the parts which are not directed at tourists, but he is a very honest man, and wants to show everyone the real Blackpool, not just the bright lights of the Golden Mile. It is essential that people aren't blinkered to the truth about what is happening in the town.

[@AWalkontheWildSideBlackpool]

Thanks Moonage xx

[@NicoleMelnyk-vw1oi]

You know coronation street makes black pool seem extravagant then again what do I know as a Canadian but yeah I'm shocked

[@tommyhassan3545]

I agree I watch his channel he’s very honest shows it how it is he’s a good guy

[@moonagedaydream4489]

​@AWalkontheWildSideBlackpool No problem Stephen xx

[@G4RY1159]

Great Channel, watch it all the time.

[@MrKASSIOPI]

The Metropole Hotel blackpool has around 400 asylum seekers living there. They have regular meals and a weekly allowance. Meanwhile the homeless sleep in doorways in Blackpool 😣

[@alison__16]

Exactly.

[@johnsmith-rs2vk]

Scandalous . Our own must come first .

[@edwinturner1149]

they do everywhere

[@booth2710]

What a pity this 'TALK' news station did not want to 'talk' about this ..

[@andrewhall5266]

Council not interested in its own people

[@justso1823]

Why would anyone spend £600 for a 3 days holiday and walk on a beach covered in sewage? And pay £35 in parking. People are delusional.

[@edwinturner1149]

I don’t spend nothing like 300 for 3day digs,where are you going,unless everything inclusive

[@justso1823]

@@edwinturner1149 altogether with spending money in Arcades food etc usual tourist stuff

[@BlackpoolRockTV]

One of the problems that isn't being discussed, is that in regards to the dereliction and deprivation, is that Blackpool Council spent £47.5m on buying Houndshill Shopping Centre, before even doing any renovation, they're also are spending millions on building new buildings for the council near the main train station, but they won't touch any of the derelict buildings to make the area derelict. The priorities of both local and central government is not in the benefit of the people of the country, its just in the benefit of corporations that profit from their current policies.

[@leemorrison7113]

Totally agree. They are not held to account and waste taxpayers money how they like while ignoring the real issues and helping the residents...

[@Hjd10]

As they say, you can't polish a turd however you can roll it in glitter... This sums up Blackpool to me.

[@mrswigglebottom967]

@BlackpoolRockTV Nailed it!

[@BlackpoolRockTV]

@@mrswigglebottom967 Thank you.

[@tonygunn6889]

Blackpool. Just broken down issues benefits universal credit. Here about levelling up Witter on the wall

[@patriciarowe6685]

I used to holiday in blackpool as a kiddie I loved it. Breaks my heart to see what's happening.

[@truth.speaker]

It's not that bad here. People can work if they want and when they do, they do well

[@truth.speaker]

@@user-gi7ri5xy9v there are plenty of jobs

[@truth.speaker]

@@user-gi7ri5xy9v have you tried the local jobcentre?

[@dawndoesnails]

Not the same is it and it’s sad. I was born and raised, now living in Northern Ireland and the family here talk of fond memories. I worked in a hotel at 17 and I remember all of the coach trips and people having a lovely time. Still happens now but it’s all changed

[@jimbrown4456]

​@@truth.speakerunless your unemployed for decades the job centre is the worst place to find work

[@hilarybramley7529]

What always shocks me at Blackpool is the complete lack of trees

[@estebantia2413]

I lived in England for 12 years, travelled round the country for work, and that's always someting that I couldn't help but point out in almost every city/ City center/ suburbs I visited. That made them look sad and lifeless.

[@002lisamarie]

@@estebantia2413 Many places have lots of trees.

[@ynwa3476]

​@@estebantia241337% of London is covered in trees and green areas. Surrey is also 37% woodland. I don't know where you travelled but there are plenty of trees in the UK.

[@estebantia2413]

@@ynwa3476 First hand, the UK is not just London. Or Surrey. Second hand, if you read again, I'm talking about cities, not the woodland, countryside (very beautiful, as a matter of fact) or whatever else. There are always gonna be trees here and there, but in general many of its cities are completely lacking.

[@ynwa3476]

@@estebantia2413 Which cities did you visit ?

[@ThailandFoodWalk]

This town started going into decline in the early 70s. People started going to Spain because it wasn't too expensive, and the weather was more or less guaranteed. Lots of people came to B,pool from all over the country on holiday and saw money changing hands, then they thought mistakenly that the streets were paved with gold. After moving here they discovered the real truth this town has always been a deprived area with little industry except the tourist industry. Even that has gone into a sharp decline over the last few decades making the place bleaker.

[@angiewolstencroft9996]

Councils need 2 think about there Conscience

[@angiewolstencroft9996]

Blackpool and its beaches are Empty Bring back the 70s when Blackpool was A Good place 2 live And go on holiday 😢 not any more Very sad

[@supportme123]

Still get record numbers of holidaymakers here every year - the problem lies elsewhere, more particularly the lack of diversification in Blackpool's economy

[@TheRedDevil-1968]

@@angiewolstencroft9996 What "conscience"? No council has them. It's all about the money for them.

[@dannyormond6839]

@ThailandFoodWalk The Social security offices employing thousands is nearby ,Preston has Aviation ,Manchester also at that time until recently had two major aviation businesses ( no gone ) Liverpool was still functioning until Thatcher arrived. By the way everyone did not go to Spain as so many people could not afford a passport . Yes you could get the 50p one from the post office but I think it was only valid for France , Belgium and Holland . Lots of people went by coach from the area to near Barcelona in Spain. Blackpool landladys helped destroy the place overpriced and dirty rooms. North Wales became a better option even Southport

[@jeanward2954]

I used to go to Blackpool as a child, it was wonderful. I think it started to decline in the 60’s . My husband was a policeman there , and ,myself a midwife. We emigrated to Canada I 1966. Last time we went “home” , my husband absolutely refused to go there , even for old time sake . So sad 😢

[@barkyvonschnauzer2188]

I Visited Blackpool as a young lad growing up in England. I got an opportunity for a job in the USA back in the late 70's early 80's and have lived here ever since. I educated myself, to criticism well from companies I worked for, moved up in succession and made something of myself. It took motivation and determination. I think that "some" have just given up on their dreams.

[@serenityinside1]

Well that’s what generous benefits do to peoples motivation and ambition if they have modest wants + desires.

[@WinChun78]

The truth is, people in general were FAR better in the 1960's/70's and even into the 1980's. There was far more politeness and dignity shown to each other and when you lose that, it soon reflects into the surroundings. People trying harder to make more of themselves and be more considerate and helpful towards others is where the change needs to start....to try and make it back to how people used to be.

[@martynblackburn9632]

Weaponised nostalgia.

[@supportme123]

@@martynblackburn9632 Oh please go away - you know very well that this is the gospel truth

[@martynblackburn9632]

I think not. The gospel and truth lie miles apart. @@supportme123

[@threethrushes]

I'm from London and 70s vintage. Confirm that standards of public behaviour were observed back then. I emigrated from the U.K. in 2015 after becoming disillusioned with the decline.

[@MaksimSSM]

But now they have Dr. Gupta as a local chief :⁠-⁠)

[@markseeley8476]

I came out of rehab and had no real place to go but had a friend from a previous hostel who had moved to Blackpool. We stayed in touch and when rehab I headed for Blackpool, lost and confused. Nothing prepared me for that place! So many sweet and lovely people but such deprivation. I relapsed on the second night and left worse than ever. The UK is a nation destroying itself from the top down. I know what I am talking about

[@johnkeanan8781]

Yeh same in many places tbh flooding in the migrants but cany take cafe of our own that's the government's policy now! Hope you are better mate.

[@JanJan-gy7qp]

In certain areas in Glasgow young men have a 50/50 chance of making it to 60! Now that’s a crisis! This was all before the cost of living crisis.

[@ThailandFoodWalk]

@@johnkeanan8781 A deliberate policy to destroy the national identities of countries worldwide. So it's easier to divide and rule people who are at each others throats with no collective identity. As usual coming under the guise of helping us or protecting us from problems they've themselves have covertly created over the years.

[@amransaddique7009]

I have immense sympathy for others and their problems up until they demonstrate what morons they are by blaming others that need help or just want a better life. Blame the government, not others.

[@danamillsap8902]

U doing drugs is your choice..no one or place is to blame.

[@MrBlurayaddict]

Just back from blackpool with kids,Beach/Sandcastle/pleasure beach the Piers had great time this is our 2nd time in 2 years,, Never had any bother/trouble,,we love it

[@Ian-gw2vx]

I first visited as a 7 year old in 1974. It was an exciting, family attraction (granted it still had it's seedy postcard image etc) The Dr Who exhibition had just opened. I was thinking of visiting again and bringing some money into the town but I can't afford to buy a ticket for the pleasure beach, tower etc. And it is also cashless which goes against my beliefs. Gone are the days when you just freely walked into the fair and paid per ride. I am sure they would make more money this way if they went back to it. It has huge potential, fresh air from the Irish Sea and yet people are dying. So very sad.

[@gilgammesh1]

The fact you have to pay to get into the pleasure beach if you just wanna watch your kids have fun is disgusting.

[@Alexander_Stevens]

This is a tough watch, terrible decisions made by successive councils have allowed this town to suffer 😢

[@CARLIN4737]

Countrywide From Great yarmouth to Margate to Morecombe to Motherwell i think youll find the same story.

[@somethinglikeanonymous1773]

No such thing as personal accountability? These people have themselves to blame.

[@mogznwaz]

I’ve always believed that your town is what the people in it make of it. Keeping your garden tidy doesn’t cost anything. Being polite, kind and hardworking don’t either. I keep hearing ‘the government should…’ but I’m not hearing ‘we should….’ This is what 70 years of welfare state liberalism creates.

[@FlyAmeliaEarheart]

Great comment. Nobody takes accountability for their own actions nowadays.

[@tonyc2837]

I live in Blackpool, it’s not great I agree. But imo it’s no worse than a lot of northern towns and cities. The main political parties are all guilty of creating the north south divide. But people in the town keep voting for a Labour council that doesn’t help matters.

[@TheMasterblaster32]

Any prostitution? Looking for a new patch to hit up.

[@sbaby-kg8hn]

Northern towns are full of drugs knife crime and antisocial behaviour

[@lonerblader85]

@@TheMasterblaster32😂😂

[@TheMasterblaster32]

@@lonerblader85 😆🤣👍

[@derbyshireguru5680]

My last proper holiday to Blackpool was in 1979; back then it was still a very family friendly place to go.... But sometime after that the Council decided to revamp Blackpool's image orientating it to younger people the nightlife began to take on a different turn and you could no longer take that evening stroll with your family without being confronted by drunken revellers, lewd debaucherous behaviour and all the other things that you really don't want to see on your family holiday.... So many families just stopped going and holidayed elsewhere; I actually began to prefer the more family friendly Norfolk coast for holidays (Not Yarmouth; which sadly followed after Blackpool and shows the same symptoms of decay)..... To me the 'cock rock' says Blackpool hasn't shaken this image off, and will continue to decline at the expense of those who actually live there, unless it cleans itself up. History has proven again and again that filth and lack of morality always end in social decay.

[@stormytempest6521]

SPOT ON.

[@curtisducati]

Like Amsterdam with drugs and prostitutes in windows on the high streets , not a good look , Blackpool is full of scum now , every pub has tattooed drunks shouting abuse , awful place to visit , full of penniless northerners with a bad attitude ....

[@sidewindersid4180]

​@@stormytempest6521nail on the head. I couldn't put it better myself.

[@RM360CR]

No one belief mediam life expecstasy in the UK is 81 when you see the levels of poverty obesity diabetes and cancer the media lies surveys studies are manipulated.

[@RM360CR]

ONe thing you can clearly see here there is no TREES and that say masses of things about your society and culture your values and your health...

[@zamiadams4343]

So sad to see this, for me as a child growing up in the 70's and 80's Blackpool was Las Vegas, great memories of a time which is long gone.

[@nessah23]

It’s same in all uk outside of London, us in mining towns are classed as scum

[@tommyhassan3545]

Yeah I agree makes me mad when I here of former mining towns voting for the tories

[@robertstraw9881]

Turkeys voting for Xmas.

[@Security848]

have you been to London

[@timmysawdust193]

@@tommyhassan3545What!? When are you going to wake up and realise that they’re all the same under the same authority. Just controlled opposition for the dumb arses that vote every year it’s ridiculous.

[@SandymoorFerrariClub]

@@Security848 It's pretty much guaranteed that if you're in London and you see a house+area where you think 'actually, it would be nice to live there', that house will cost at least £3 million.

[@hullebikerfishing]

If the immigration was stopped, then the £20 million a day that is spent housing them would go to communities that need the help.

[@johnsmith-rs2vk]

HEAR BLOODY HEAR !

[@Herbie-Went-Bananas-Then-Split]

No, it wouldn't. That is a separate fund entirely so stop using that false argument.

[@Alexander_Stevens]

The problems in Blackpool have been visible well before any asylum seekers arrived.

[@amransaddique7009]

How naive! That money saved would go on council vanity projects and generous expenses for civil servants and council workers.Anyone thinking less for immigrants means more for natives is a moron. And that’s being polite. If immigration was zero then government would still say that coffers are empty and budgets are strained . Regarding seaside towns, heres an idea and it is just an idea . If people are so patriotic and want to support their fellow native then visit seaside towns and spend your money there.

[@amransaddique7009]

@Scybornetaxpayers exactly !! Places like this have above average unemployment, so these people are not taxpayers!!

[@peter428]

one of the funniest parts of this clip is the guy from the Council talking about his concerns for the health of Blackpool residents ! whilst he is appearing like one of the most unhealthiest people that you could wish to meet on a dark night in Blackpool…Unbelievable 🤷🏼‍♂️ 🇬🇧😮

[@patriciahadley2374]

Peter 428. You're right, I thought the same.about him. But then so are an enormous number of the Blackpool population...unhealthy. They are enormously fat, especially the women, and it's heartbreaking seeing all those fat kids and grossly overweight teenagers. They are killing themselves but don't seem to realize it or even care about it. 😪

[@robdelterror41]

Great little documentary, and all very close to the bone. I've lost 3 friends, all 40 and under since April this year. It's a tough town to survive in and it isn't getting any easier.

[@maxwellmc9734]

What's the biggest drug problem is their a spice issue

[@johngee5699]

What killed them?

[@robdelterror41]

@@johngee5699 2 to suicide and one to liver cirrhosis.

[@002lisamarie]

​@@robdelterror41That's sad. How are you doing. Do you have a job x

[@bobbyboyderecords]

Heroin, drink and fighting

[@helenferullo5706]

Living in the north of England during the late 50’s I remember the first bus trip my family of nine ever took and that was to Blackpool for the day. It was very exciting seeing a beach for the first time. Even though it was cool we sat on beach dressed in our Sunday best. Enjoying ice cream and eating rock sweet sticks was awesome. Despite having traveled extensively including cruise ships and living next to the ocean, I still hold fond memories of my trip to Blackpool.

[@rubberplantsandwich]

Am not sure its just Blackpool, a lot of towns across the UK are having the same problem, especially seaside towns.

[@robtaylor9547]

Blackpool was great in the 80s. The place has been run into the ground... back streets empty... such a shame.. who has caused this mess

[@G4RY1159]

Agree, back in the 70's & 80's you'd NEVER see a single void shop or derelict B&B Good times back then, simple with a lot less greed, no food banks in them days and those times were still tough.

[@edwinturner1149]

wants compulsory purchase orders,over time,and rebuild retail,industry and leisure ,or large swathes of land sold for redevelopment with the same purpose in mind

[@TableTopWolf1984]

We have, us Brits who decided it was cheaper an better to go abroad for holidays, an then you add on the industry closures by the Tories in the 70s/80s, an it becomes a place that can only make money in the summer an so the frontage earns but the back streets where locals should visit don't, an so you spend money on improving that which makes money an stuff the rest, that's capitalism in a nutshell, so we caused this

[@deanmadnut2614]

​@@G4RY1159at least there was freedom back then

[@supportme123]

@@edwinturner1149 But CPOs are expensive - where is the money to come from?

[@richardcoleman1427]

I stayed in Blackpool during the covid for 2 years. It is the most dire place I have ever stayed. Everyone I saw smoked, drank, took drugs , smoked week, were fat, litter everywhere, dog crap every 10ft on the path, too many aggressive people, i got threatened 3 times just for walking reading my book. The entire place needs gentrifying and the scum forced away from the town

[@Uktravelguy]

The truth reality and its all the the down and outs from other towns in Lancs that bring there issues there. To me it's just a dump by the sea......

[@blackporscheroadster-yw8hb]

@@Uktravelguy A lot more to Blackpool than the negatives. The Piers, The Winter Gardens, the Tower Ballroom, The Zoo, the beach, some of the grand hotels. Blackpool is not all negativity.

[@Uktravelguy]

@@blackporscheroadster-yw8hb It caters for a specific crowd. It dosent cut the crust for me. Ive visited other more popular seaside resorts, which have more going for them than Blackpool and offer more of a variety....

[@stevensarson482]

As a child we had a caravan at Cleveleys and a treat was to go to The Lobster Pot , in Blackpool , for tea. Watching what the place has become is very sad , and an indicator of how far we have slipped, despite the glossy facade that cloaks the country.

[@joedomican2286]

I have known Blackpool for many years ( 60 that I can remember) including running the post there for a while in the 80's and it's decline is almost unbelievable. Nobody wants to live there and the former holiday accommodation has been filled with all manner of troubled people. I went back a couple of years ago for a short stay. It was so sad and pathetic. I don't know the answer . I moved from the North West of England ( via lots of places ) to Canterbury ,this is a beautiful place always bustling ,we have tourists all year around we have a university so lot's of young people it's just a nice place. Blackpool used to be great but now just sad.

[@dangiles5038]

We swapped places, I moved from Canterbury to Lytham St Annes 8 years ago. I prefer it up here, nice town, affordable housing, great place to raise kids. Blackpool is dire though, it’s a different world altogether compared to 5 min up the road

[@robertbroatch8013]

Really appalling poverty!This is dreadful!Really horrendous!

[@Elizabeth-jd3mn]

Obesity is the worst pandemic this country has faced over 30 years. Its a combination of NHS treating illness rather than being pro active and preventing it coupled with people growing up with less life skills. Cookery fell off the school curriculum many years ago so people rely on processed food. On top of this is the decimation of the industries that were prevalent and well paid. De industrialisation has devastated communities. Depressingly I can't see any of this changing.

[@truth.speaker]

KZbin let's you learn to cook a meal with easy guides for free We make our own choices in life

[@franrowe8696]

The NHS aren't responsible for folks diet choices.

[@lisagray1326]

Buying take away and processed food is far more expensive than buying vegetables and a piece if chicken. People are lazy. They make excuses. I'm not saying there's isn't poverty but you have to eat alot of junk food to become obese and that costs money!

[@garethwilliams4467]

that's a cop out. My mum taught me how to cook. And now I watch food programmes and youtube. Lazy people are usually obese.

[@SandymoorFerrariClub]

@@franrowe8696 The positive thing about the obesity epidemic is that it kills off the kind of people who won't take responsibility for their own choices.

[@jilumiah]

Blackpool has 16 William Hill book makers, that says the towns people have poor money management.

[@Hjd10]

Blackpool is my hometown and to be honest, I never visit as it was dreadful when I left in 1990. You know that Disney looked at building a new park back in the 1980s and the clowns in the council made it all too difficult? The place could have been so different. You have a declining economy with more and more people with issues moving in.

[@peterwright4224]

I spent as an expat some time trying to help, no one was interested, everyone knew better but had never experienced a functioning society. The only hope for the UK is external guidance but everyone in the UK knows everything better. I live in happiness in a functioning society in South East Asia

[@chloboshoka]

I loved Blackpool and got good memories there, so it’s painful to see how it’s been left to rot and only cared about during season tine.Closing the outdoor market was a big mistake, it was always bustling and great to see.

[@MrLeemac32]

The guy in the glasses and the black cap needs to get a bloody job, obviously more than capable

[@crm2507777]

Well said Ian Duncan Smith

[@MrLeemac32]

@@crm2507777 whatever but obviously capable of doing something and not just abusing handouts

[@zeldagoblin]

So what's your solution to the thousands of benefit grifters?

[@crm2507777]

@@MrLeemac32 Ohh there’s a guy over there with no arms and legs,what work could he do 🤔 well I know of a farmer who’s looking for a scarecrow!!! That’s basically your attitude isn’t it 🤦‍♂️ Have some compassion

[@magpiestudent9357]

He might have one. There are a lot of 'working poor.'

[@JJ-iq8mi]

I grew up on the Fylde Coast. Awful to see Blackpool has been left to rot by the Council.

[@johnsmith-rs2vk]

FAT CATS GETTING FATTER .

[@michaelhurley3171]

Just like Atlantic City here in the US. They thought gambling would revive it, but it didn't. Maybe we should work together to bring back our beach towns!

[@jamiefielding6406]

Living in Blackpool myself can be hard for my mental health. People are horrible, streets are filthy and deserted and Abandon buildings. Its also hard to get a job and the payment is terrible.

[@pollyanne234]

😢there's plenty in f hotel jobs

[@brummierunner]

Based there as a soldier at weeton barracks for 3 years in 2002. What a place it was back then

[@christinecullen7680]

I worked in Blackpool for 8 years leaving there 2019. The depravity is not a new issue. There are multiple issues and its always been the same issue the council blames the government and vice versa . There are a lot of good working class people there however there are generations of unemployed due to lack of industry, which creates boredom. Working in the health industry I agree the food choices in Blackpool are questionable . There are multiple cheap frozen food shops as well as the usual chips and burger types of places. its not an easy place to live even those working in the tourist industry know that Blackpool almost closes down for a good part of the year. Good Documentary highlighting some of the issues. .

[@123vandrax]

Went on holidays here 30 yrs ago twice.Loved the place great memorys of it

[@markwoodward881]

Education about life and health is needed.

[@alipinkstilettos]

When my sister turned 18 she booked a two week holiday with her friends...she was back home after only 3 days!! And this was in 2000 not much has changed :((

[@natalieoliver3215]

I stopped in Blackpool this January for a few nights, wow!! It was horrendous, druggies everywhere, people passed out on the floor, dog crap everywhere, people asking for money, me and my partner even got threatened, I was absolutely terrified, I will never, ever visit Blackpool again!! If it wasn't for the tourists, I dread to think the state it would be in. People should take pride in where they live.

[@obejon_kenobi]

Feel lucky what I have today and so sad to see what others are struggling with. Just a reminder, you're never alone and you never walk alone. Really am hoping things will improve in Blackpool. I love the locals they amazing community

[@nightwingthewolf2931]

Ran by a corrupt council, Blackpool council

[@johnsmith-rs2vk]

HOW ,YER DOING , COUNCILLOR ?

[@MartinHorvath-ws9ut]

Just come back from a day trip there and once you get off the sea front,some of the nearby streets were disgusting.The residents have no pride and it shows,People make slums,not buildings.

[@mancman-bu4kz]

Mid 80s/90s this place was booming Blackpool illumination etc took my kid recently and its a far cry from what was even going through lights is depressing now

[@nightowl7459]

I was unfortunate enough to live in Blackpool for a good few years and it's dire, I still have friends and relatives who are still unfortunate enough to live there and they say it's only got worse, but they always manage to increase the council taxes without any problem, one self serving politician and Councillors (usually Liebour) just replace another self serving politician and councillors

[@TheMasterblaster32]

All about the dosh anywhere you go.

[@Abraham_Tsfaye]

When I was in UK. I saw empty boarded up streets under a constant grey sky, litter everywhere. Homeless people sleeping in doorways. Opioid addicts out of their mind and women so drunk they urinated on the streets. It's a sad declined country

[@samanthaparmley1386]

Opioid addicts out of their mind ?, sure your not thinking of spice addicts ?

[@Abraham_Tsfaye]

@@samanthaparmley1386 Correct.

[@heatherboardman7004]

Thank you for saying the truth. Dinghy people think the streets are paved with gold. British people are being overlooked by the political elite. The rest of the world get help bar the British

[@blackporscheroadster-yw8hb]

You obviously have only seen some bad parts of the UK. I can assure you there are 100s of very affluent and thriving towns in the UK.

[@CR-xt7cd]

The doctor sounds like a fool. He takes no accountability, says it’s governments job to make people healthy. Why doesn’t he speak to core health issues, nutrition, hygiene, family, history, exercise, potential, drug addictions. No wonder things don’t look great. He initially says they have no plan and then he says they have a plan, so which is it. What a mess.

[@FreyjatheFairy]

I had the Cottingley Fairy shop as shown in the video , the trouble was that it was on Bond Street and visitors only go on the front , locals have family centres that they attend FREE of charge so my little shop didn't stand a chance, I ended up taking bookings from the family centres and I was amazed by the fruit and veg that was left in these centres (which is given out Free of charge), it was left to go off as thats not what Blackpool is about, its about junk food and the prom ... such a shame for the locals who have to put up with the shops all being shut and zombie druggies that limp down the street , I moved away somewhat 8 years ago and the shop still has my sign up .... such a dam shame

[@nigeh5326]

Many of those on drink and drugs in Blackpool aren’t from there. They go to Blackpool because they remember it from past visits and want to go somewhere they liked. It also has lots of relatively cheap rooms and lots of dealers who can supply the drugs they crave.

[@bobbyboyderecords]

very true - even those in this video did not have blackpool accents

[@steveseaton4639]

Drove there last weekend for a stag do, I'm certainly not living in luxury but by God some areas are so run down, I was genuinely shocked, I don't have the answer and I'm certain it's no quick fix, lots of areas in society are rapidly in decline and I really don't see a way back sadly, the rot has set for many places.

[@teddydavis2339]

I actually lived just outside of Blackpool some years back. I could tell that there were some problems there, but I didn't know that things were that serious.

[@Themis33]

Blackpool was banging back In the day. Great nightlife in the late 90s early 00s. You'd have to pay me to go there now.

[@Jimbo_Jumbo]

A great example of a native english town ignored in favour of the new diversity

[@robdelterror41]

Can you explain "the new diversity"

[@purpleronnie7382]

dead right

[@patriciarowe6685]

​@@robdelterror41Don't be a spanner.

[@mrbenn1489]

@@robdelterror41 can you explain to us why you need it explained?

[@Mr_Spliffy]

​@@mrbenn1489absolutely

[@m.goodengumman3941]

To some extent it's the same mess in most big cities, cost of living has skyrocketed, drug abuse is the growth sector, jobs are hard to find, etc.

[@chrismullan7191]

Blackpool should never have been let get so run down, it was once my fav place to visit every oct to see the lights, i found it had a great vibe and had a buzz, it could still be brought back to its former glory with investment, it still has so much going for it, i truely hope that the old Blackpool can rise up again.

[@northernthrifter8817]

No it couldn't, even if they spent billions renovating the town it wouldn't be a sustainable investment , Blackpool will continue to rot like the rest of the North West of England. Council's that support corporate business entirely at the expense of everything else will only continue to destroy their towns. Look at Britain's rail system it's archaic compared to parts of Europe and the far East. All the political parties at local level have sold themselves out to the UN and WEF and their agendas. The only good news is the current system is close to collapse and hopefully people will be more involved in their communities and won't allow corruption and greed to take hold again

[@jamesbomd3503]

I DON'T THINK THAT WILL HAPPEN AS WERE IN THE JET/TICK/TOK AGE, AND SUNSHINE FOR AROUND 12 WEEKS IF YOUR UNDER 40 FORGET IT

[@ReeseJamPiece.]

Soul-crushing really, got no other words for it.

[@DisneyMarkUK]

Thank you for this

[@lisabeaumont]

One word, Blackpool: diet. Fish & chips, burger & chips, rock, fudge, doughnuts, fizzy pop, alcohol…

[@atekle1382]

the whole of uk needs some miracle intervention.

[@josephnott2956]

What we need is an election

[@jeanbissettfayse8844]

This is heartbreaking to see how Blackpool has gone down so much

[@deanmadnut2614]

The whole country is like it

[@colinbirks5403]

Blackpool? Wonderful holidays when I was a kid. (1940's) Took my kids there, to try and recapture the feeling. Scoured the town for proper food, instead of just fish and chips, pizza's and burgers. Blackpool is dead and buried,

[@edwinturner1149]

you will find it difficult to access “proper food” there,unless you use a pub or fine restaurant

[@bigups737]

🎉finally a place that accepts people with issues. ....I am on my way.

[@jamesjones7138]

Don't bother. Find somewhere with a greater sense of community. Blackpool is full of people who came here thinking it's the 'Land of Milk and Honey'. It isn't. Tourists come first here in Blackpool, not the Residents. Tourist areas get the attention of the Council's wallet, not the residential areas. I can't stop you coming here, but you will pay a hefty price for falling in to the Trap.

[@nightowl7459]

@@jamesjones7138 Absolutely spot on, I used to live there, (North Shore) and it was dire, I still have family and friends there and they say it's got even worse lately, the council was terrible then and I believe that hasn't changed either.

[@jamesjones7138]

@@nightowl7459 Thanks for the reply. Take care wherever you are and don't come back!!!

[@nightowl7459]

@@jamesjones7138 Thanks, unfortunately I visit now and again to see family, you take care too.👍

[@UKGBManny]

I have old pictures of my grandad parents in blackpool in the 1950s and it looked like a great time. I went as a kid alot but since the 80s it has been down hill.

[@CarrieRichardson99]

Nobody can get an appointment for anything health related unless it becomes an emergency and then you're stuck in corridors for days waiting to be seen because the only way anyone can get treated or a referral for anything is to go to a&e. It's horrible trying to access health services when you're unwell and in pain.

[@edwinturner1149]

most of the uk has similar problems, do up the n h s, or privatise it,then we would know what is what

[@lonerblader85]

Sounds familiar 😑

[@magpiestudent9357]

I am not criticising the food bank as it is doing its best, and thank goodness for it providing such a lifeline for people, but the offerings seem to be mainly processed food; white bread, white pasta, biscuits and sugary drinks. Aside from the bananas, I don't think there was a single healthy item on display. These things will stave off hunger only in the short-term and have no nutritional value. Poor diet contributes to a lack of energy as well as physical and mental health issues in the long term. Obesity and type II diabetes are huge problems in areas of deprivation. Healthier and reasonably priced offerings include tinned tomatoes, dried beans and legumes which have a long shelf life and can be used to bulk out meals, but it seems that people have lost the knowledge of how to cook and prepare these ingredients effectively which is such an important life skill. In an ideal world, whole grains would replace the bread and pasta but they cost more...

[@TheWeardale1]

coastal town like these always attract a certain type of person these days, and that's why normal people stay away..

[@SG-wi9kd]

I spent a few years in Blackpool as a student in the late 80’s, it was an exciting place to live. Now when I occasionally visit, it appears to be a shadow of its former self. The downfall appears to stem from a combination of mismanagement and people with means deciding not to visit. The people it now attracts are not entrepreneurs or hungry for success, actually quite the opposite. Hopefully someone with a strong character and significant resources will take the reins.

[@JaysGamingCorner]

i live in Blackpool and whilst I'm lucky enough to not need food banks and such, its getting crazy how many people need to rely on things like that, the woman being interviewed about the doctors appointments is right, i suspected i had a heart issue, yet i had to wait just over a month to get seen. The drugs and alcohol problems here are crazy, every time you leave your house you will see at least 2/3 drug addicts laying on the floor somewhere, the amount of youth carrying knives here is nuts, the crime rate is a joke and the suicide rate doesn't surprise me at all, a good friend of mine killed himself a few years ago and i know people, who have known people who have ended their lives in their 20s/30s i wasn't born here, but my parents moved here when i was young, i wish they never bothered

[@user-kx6yv1bn6q]

I have come to Blackpool many times over the years and have had some very good times. However, I have just spent 5 days in Blackpool with my family, and come to see for myself what a s***hole the seaside area has become. General The beach, piers, tower, funfair and some other entertainments is still an attraction. However, a lot of shops, buildings and even the main market (which was closed) is in need of a major refurbishment. Anti-social behaviour 1.Too many people with big egos and intoxicated people (either drinking or on drugs) walking around looking for trouble. One racist person walking with his dog tried to intimidate me and my family saying "this was his country". 2. A lot of begging and homelessness people outside shops. What is the Council or Police doing about this? 3. Drivers speeding in streets. A person drove so fast he appeared to damage a lamppost and quickly drive off. Luckly no was injured. 4. Hardly no Police or PCSOs in uniform to be seen in the City Centre or the surrounding areas. Having summarised the above, I will not be visiting this part of Blackpool again with my family!!

[@blondie9422]

This makes me feel so sad 😢

[@theblackpoolbible9760]

Nice piece. Bang on. Enough Said.

[@yesasd533]

when will people realise that we are all getting screwed on purpose.

[@TheMasterblaster32]

What a dive.

[@Marjorie-hf2ch]

My daughter had a childrenswear shop in blackpool but had to close in 2023 due to illness, the locals and customers we had from all over were wonderful, blackpool has a lot to offer and money is being spent a new hotel a new cinema, showtown etc but alot of the back streets have been neglected i also think the pavements look harsh it needs more trees like lytham i hope blackpool keeps improving

[@ScowlerJase]

Been on the decline for decades really - I can remember as a kid , we would drive to Blackpool to see the lights - never stopping or getting out the car, there was no point.

[@doctoramelioration7971]

Blackpool is such an insufferably execrable abyss and oozing zit on the face of the Earth that simply hearing a person spout its name or show a pic of it through a screen is enough to contaminate my day, possessing me to beg for a way to unsee things. Everywhere in England is unassailably awful, but Blackpool is a whole new low that only those searching for a taste of hell would descend to. The fact that I never had to visit the place, will never have to visit it nor live there is a circumstance that I cannot thank enough.

[@suchanhachan]

But be honest. How do you really feel about Blackpool?...

[@doctoramelioration7971]

@@suchanhachan To be real , no description I give can fully emphasise my distain for it. Therefore, in a way, I can't be honest about my opinions on Blackpool, as no one, myself included, can write anything that appropriately emphasises how abysmal of a place it is. Its ghastliness is boundless and, thereby, can't be overestimated.

[@suchanhachan]

@@doctoramelioration7971 Point well taken. Fortunately, I've never experienced a place that I abhor the way that you do Blackpool...

[@jamescaley9942]

Last time I was there you could buy T-shirts saying "Work hard. People on benefits are depending on you".

[@poorditor]

lol

[@gbru2505]

Its moved on. Far-right regalia and insignia on the rise among Northern Class traitors on Blackpool prom too. Allies of Putin and his lackeys.

[@tonywebster8311]

Funny, but pitiful. The world is different how can benefits be a career path.

[@johnniethepom7545]

​@tonywebster8311 It's become generational cradle to the grave !

[@Englishsea24]

If it wasn't so disgraceful it would be funny

[@user-eq5mj3ii6m]

As a former resident of Blackpool (20 years, 19 years ago) I absolutely agree that it is the people that make Blackpool, unfortunately it's the people that make it sh*t! There are far too few exceptions for the size of the population, and the facilities are very good in the area (even improved since I left. I still have family there, and visit enough to say it has been in a steep decline since the 90's.

[@johnryan2193]

A big plus to that man providing community councilling . this is the way up for all communitys .

[@robertwilliams9234]

Loved Blackpool in the 80s will never go there again

[@7H3541N7]

Even as a tourist, it's not great. It's more expensive now, it's incredibly busy and it's stuck in the past. Too much of what's there, aside from the Pleasure Beach isn't really of interest. Facilities seem to be crumbling, you step a street or so back from the promenade and everything is crumbling. It's not very family friendly from around 5pm onwards, it's too full of drunken louts who have been drinking all day. Everything there is seasonal, outside of peak season the town loses huge amounts of work. It reminds me of how Las Vegas is built, all glitzy on the front hiding the homelessness and addictions it's created in the background

[@garethwilliams4467]

I was thinking of moving to Stannes/Lytham. But I keep telling myself all the detritus from Blackpool must travel

[@7H3541N7]

@@garethwilliams4467 Lytham is a nice place, much quieter than Blackpool with much nicer beaches, but I believe they're.also pretty deprived areas with shops struggling to remain open. There was an article about it quite recently.

[@garethwilliams4467]

@@7H3541N7 Thanks for the reply. I notice there is a lot of building going on as well. So I'm thinking traffic will be increasing. IS there a high immigrant population in the area ?

[@7H3541N7]

@@garethwilliams4467 I can't say I noticed whenever I've been there. It just felt much quieter. Definitely looked nicer but it seems like the whole Fylde coast is struggling. Everything is very seasonal which doesn't help.

[@garethwilliams4467]

@@7H3541N7 yeah I curenttly work from home. But if that changes I guess my options will be a commute into Manchester. I go to Preston a lot (to use the train), the homelessness there is massive ... and it looks awful! I wouldn't have thought it is much of an improvement.

[@lukeframpton3671]

We love Blackpool it's sad to see it being left to fall to peaces

[@italbabe10]

Get a full time job, live within your means, split your money down accordingly to pay bills, put any extra cash aside for emergencies, stay healthy, less booze, cook your food, don't smoke, manage your weight, get exercise in addition to work, choose your friends wisely, all the same stuff anyone else has to do to live well whether you are from Blackpool or anywhere else.

[@abcjelly]

@italbabe10 100% facts 👆☝️✅

[@jackjones-er1ts]

i was there in 2019 and in 1981 before that and couldn't believe how much it had deteriorated in the four decades since I last visited.

[@paranormalchannelx1307]

DIVERSITY IS NOT OUR STRENGTH...WAKE UP ♥️🇬🇧✝️

[@adammalley6865]

Nonsense

[@scottish5696]

I live here, moved down from Scotland in 2010. I regret my decision. I feel very old and I'm only 41. The streets are potholed and rubbish everywhere. I want to leave, but my kids are here, I'm homesick.

[@JungleJeffarnold]

Get the hell out it won't get any better, I moved south from Morecambe years ago similar type of place.

[@intuitiveobserver]

Come back to scotland. Its less toxic here

[@Themis33]

Loads of Scottish people moved to Blackpool. I never understood why. Move if you're not feeling it anymore. Life is too short to be unhappy.

[@blackporscheroadster-yw8hb]

Move to Lytham St Annes just down the coast. Accommodation is still cheap. I used to live there. Different world to Blackpool.

[@scottish5696]

@blackporscheroadster-yw8hb believe it or not, my friend, I've stayed there too, in 2003-4. Its a very nice area for family. Blackpool isn't that bad, it's just... Well, all council money goes into the centre of Blackpool, the rest gets left to rot and fester. Do you stay here my man?.

[@rockerjim8045]

I worked with a colleague from Blackpool. She was one step up from Amoeba. Unbelievable how she was so out of touch with the rest of the Human Race.

[@aprilsmith3683]

It is always the kind and generous individuals who step up... 🇿🇦

[@lizrobinson3893]

There’s no greenery at all it’s just miserable.

[@suzannewebb7913]

I use to like going to Blackpool but last few years it’s a big no . Most town centre are looking the same but I noticed a big difference from Blackpool to my home town in Essex

[@rageagainstmyhatchet]

Referenced healthy life expectancy in the top line statistics.... You get an up vote. Thank you for being an actually researched documentary.

[@alexandradufton4260]

I grew up in Blackpool. When i moved out of home despite having two jobs i couldnt afford to live in anything other than a run down bedsit. I noticed more and more shops and homes going derelict as i was growing up. So much of what i remember as a kid has been redeveloped or burned down. The new big Sainsbury's also stands on the ground of one of the houses i used to live in. It got knocked down along with half that street to build a carpark before Sainsbury's built on the site. Im glad i took rhe chance to move to Scotland. Id hate to think what id be doing now if i was still in Blackpool

[@scottishdude9161]

Hope you're enjoying Scotland.

[@mrcodhead67]

It was a bit of a pit when I lived there in the 80s/90s, but at least there still were decent shops, and it's always been rough & ready, but its deterioration is excessive.

[@somethingelse4878]

From Kendal and went to Blackpool for a week re medical. Things that stood out to us. The microclimate and how it was sometimes 7c warmer at night, 4c in the day. The sun that burned your skin far more and the better light. The guy with his shirt covered in blood running past, taking it on and off while twitching. The cost of the dirty, overcrowded train that runs from Glasgow to London, calling at Preston. The cost of eating and staying in Blackpool for a week, costing four times as much as two weeks in Spain. The cheap hotels being full of bedbugs and not clean. The cost of the drinks, food and rooms at the village hotel. How flat and spaced out everything is. Stanley Park and all the things for the people in there, vs my town with not so much. Poulton-Le-Fylde and its microclimate, good vibes and nice people. The nice land around and microclimate around Poulton and Blackpool. For what we have in Britain, Britain is far too expensive, with hotels taking as much as they can while owned by the US. Good people in BP with lots going for them vs my dead town

[@supportme123]

Cost of eating and staying in Blackpool is high because the cost of running and maintaining all catering establishments is high. it's the perfect example of a vicious circle.