The Carstairs index is based on four Census variables: low social class, lack of car ownership, overcrowding and male unemployment and the overall index reflects the material deprivation of an area, in relation to the rest of Scotland.
The Carstairs index hinges on four Census factors: low socioeconomic status, lack of vehicle possession, overcrowded conditions, and high male unemployment rates. This index quantifies the material hardship within an area relative to other parts of Scotland.