A recent study by Co-op and Demos reveals significant challenges faced by individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds in accessing career opportunities.
- The research indicates that 70% of people from these backgrounds encounter barriers, with younger generations notably impacted.
- Many feel pressured to hide their background during interviews or at work, exacerbating social stigma.
- Key barriers include lack of financial support for further education, low confidence in work environments, and inaccessible internships.
- The study calls for government and business action to improve social mobility, potentially adding £200 billion to the UK GDP over the next decade.
A comprehensive study from Co-op and Demos highlights the significant barriers faced by individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds in the UK. With 70% of these individuals encountering obstacles in career or education opportunities, the findings point to a pressing need for improved social mobility. The study emphasizes the broader impact on younger generations, where a staggering 82% of 16-34 year-olds report feeling compelled to downplay their socioeconomic background in professional settings.
This trend of concealing one’s background stems from the social stigma attached to socioeconomic status. In the words of Ishitha Islam, a young professional from London, “I still feel like I don’t fit in at prestigious organisations because there is no one like me reflected in the higher ranks.” Such sentiments underscore the need for increased awareness and action.
The research identifies primary barriers that inhibit the career progress of disadvantaged individuals. These include a lack of financial support for pursuing further education (21%), low confidence or a sense of belonging in certain work environments (19%), and the high cost of relocating for better opportunities (17%). Additional obstacles are inaccessible unpaid internships (14%), growing up in regions with limited opportunities (13%), and restricted access to career advice or mentorship (10%).
Claire Costello, Co-op’s Chief People and Inclusion Officer, stresses the economic implications of these findings, describing the issue as a significant impediment to realizing individuals’ potential. She points out that promoting social mobility not only addresses moral concerns but also presents an economic opportunity.
In response, Co-op has launched the ‘Backgrounds into the Foreground’ campaign, urging the government to accelerate plans to make socioeconomic background a protected characteristic. This protection would aim to safeguard against discrimination in both workplaces and educational settings, fostering a more inclusive environment where all individuals have equal access to opportunities.
The study builds on existing reports from the Social Mobility Commission, indicating that young people from higher professional backgrounds are substantially more likely to pursue and secure high-level professional roles than their peers from lower working-class backgrounds. The study’s findings emphasize the urgent need for policy reforms and a concerted effort by businesses to dismantle barriers and promote inclusivity.
The study by Co-op and Demos highlights a crucial economic and social issue, calling for decisive actions to enhance social mobility in the UK.
