More details available under the [HM revenue and Customs (HMRC) Child Benefit Statistics Small Area Data Publication](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/684138/Introduction_to_Child_Benefit_Small_Area_Data_2017.pdf). The data was downloaded from the [HMRC small area data pages](https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/child-benefit-small-area-data).
The [HMRC statistics revisions policy is published on gov.uk.](The HMRC statistics revisions policy is published on gov.uk.)
Some data could not be allocated to a Data Zone so is not included, apart from in the Scotland totals. The figures have been independently rounded to the nearest 5. This can lead to components as shown not summing to totals as shown. This publication does not include those that have opted out of receiving Child Benefit. Breakdowns of opt-out figures for this publication are not possible, due to the low level geographies involved. In the 2014 data, there are cases where postcodes associated to a claimant family do not match HM Revenue & Customs most recent records of Scottish Data Zones; these are only included in the Scotland total.
Geographical analysis of Child Benefit at small area levels. Number of children in a live Child Benefit award as at 31st August.
HMRC child benefit data covering Great Britain is available on [the gov.uk website,](HMRC child benefit data covering Great Britain is available on the gov.uk website, along with details of the methodology used to produce the statistics and definitions of terms used.) along with details of the methodology used to produce the statistics and definitions of terms used.
Figures sourced from HMRC are subject to the dominance and disclosure guidelines set out in the GSS code of practice.
The data for 2014 is based on 2001 Data Zones, and the data for 2015 onwards is based on 2011 Data Zones. HMRC published child benefit data uses obsolete Electoral Ward geographical units until 2018. Electoral Wards created in September 2016, as part of the 5th Review of Local Government Electoral Arrangements are used from 2018 onwards.
The data refers to the number of families receiving Child Benefit (CB) (and their eligible dependents) and is derived from two 100% scans from the Child Benefit Computer System (CBCS).
The statistics are as close to real-time as possible and represent the complete picture as at the 31st August, including back-dated awards pertaining to new-births.
The statistics contained in this publication will be of interest for anyone that is looking for the latest possible data on Child Benefit. Specifically, there are statistics on the number of children, by age band, in each geographical area. The user consultation showed that these statistics are used mainly by Local Government followed by Central Government and Academics.
Economic Activity, Benefits and Tax Credits