The Social Mobility Crisis
Social mobility is the ability of people to move up or down in society based on factors like education, income, and job opportunities. It’s about whether someone can improve their life circumstances, regardless of their background. Social mobility in the UK is low which means people from lower income backgrounds struggle to advance, even if they have the talent, skills, potential and ambition.
The Social Mobility Opportunity
Investing in social mobility isn’t just a moral imperative - it’s a strategic advantage for businesses and the economy.
By breaking down barriers to opportunity, companies can unlock untapped talent, drive innovation and boost productivity.
£19bn
To UK's GDP
annually
£6.8bn
In yearly tax revenues
£1.8bn
In annual business profits
Unlock high potential & performing talent
Boost innovation
&
productivity
Improve engagement
&
retention
Enhance reputation, trust &
loyalty
Drive profit
&
economic growh
The Business Benefits
of
Social Mobility
Companies that prioritise social mobility see tangible benefits, including:
Improved Talent Acquisition: Expanding hiring practices to include diverse backgrounds increases access to high-potential and high-performing employees.
Higher Productivity: Employees who feel valued and supported perform better, leading to increased efficiency, innovation and productivity.
Stronger Workplace Culture: Inclusive environments foster engagement, collaboration, and long-term retention.
Enhanced Brand Reputation: Businesses that champion social mobility are seen as ethical, forward-thinking and attractive to top talent.
Social Mobility
&
Leadership
Social mobility isn’t just about entry-level hiring - it’s about developing existing and future leaders. Companies that invest in human leadership and emotional intelligence create workplaces where employees feel empowered to grow, regardless of their background.
McKinsey research highlights that businesses with higher socioeconomic diversity perform better due to improved decision-making, customer orientation, and employee satisfaction. By fostering emotionally intelligent leadership, organisations can build resilient teams that drive long-term success.
Companies that embrace it gain access to a broader talent pool, improve performance, and contribute to a stronger economy. By fostering inclusive leadership and equitable opportunities, businesses can drive innovation, enhance profitability and lead the way in shaping a more dynamic and successful workforce.
Sources:demons.co.uk |suttontrust.com |mckinsey.com