A survey among children in one of the poorest parts of West Lothian shows them wise beyond their years in a heartbreaking understanding of life around them.

The study among primary six and seven pupils in Whitburn and Blackburn reveals widespread recognition of poverty and social isolation, and the perils of addiction.

Local councillors branded the findings “depressing” and “shocking”, but also pointed to the knowledge that socially-aware youngsters would grow into adults who wanted to make a difference.

In the survey children were provided with the opportunity to draw or write what they liked and didn’t like in their community and were then provided with the opportunity “to use a magic wand to change two things in their community.”

The children provided a list of likes which included local football clubs, parks, friends festive parades, the bike path as well as clubs in community and partnerships centres.

The list of dislikes was much longer, and mirrored many adult anxieties.

Typical responses included: “More help for poor people”; “More food needed”; “Litter and dog poo on the pavements”; “Drugs / drug dealers”, “Not being able to afford stuff “ and “Poverty causing stress.”

Other pleas included “Need more school trips” and “Too many empty vapes on the ground”.

Chairing the meeting of Whitburn and Blackburn Local Area Committee Councillor George Paul heaped praise on the report by a regeneration officer and said: “ Everybody needs to read this paper.”

The survey was part of the new Locality Plan drawn up for the towns by West Lothian Council and its partner groups including the NHS, government agencies and Third sector volunteers.

Don't miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here