Research reveals that 7.4 million individuals face career obstacles due to socioeconomic backgrounds.
- A staggering 70% from lower socioeconomic classes confront barriers to educational and career opportunities.
- Pressure to conceal background in professional settings affects 27% of individuals, rising significantly among the young.
- Key barriers include lack of financial support and limited access to professional networks, impacting progress.
- Calls for policy and business action on social mobility could unlock significant economic benefits.
A recent study highlights substantial barriers faced by individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. The data reveals that 70% of these individuals encounter obstacles in accessing career and educational opportunities. This positions social mobility as a pressing issue within the UK.
Concealing one’s socioeconomic background emerges as a prevalent phenomenon, with 27% feeling the need to hide their backgrounds during job interviews and at work. This figure rises drastically to 82% among younger individuals aged 16-34, with 39% admitting to actively concealing their backgrounds. This indicates a persistent social stigma surrounding socioeconomic status.
The study identifies ten significant barriers that inhibit progress for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. These include a lack of financial support for further education (21%), low confidence in workplace environments (19%), and the prohibitive cost of relocating for better opportunities (17%). Additional barriers cited include inaccessible unpaid internships (14%) and a shortage of career advice or mentorship (10%).
First-generation professionals, like Ishitha Islam, express challenges in finding relatable experiences within prestigious organizations. Islam’s statement that there is no reflection of people like her in higher ranks adds context to the struggle for inclusivity and representation in the workforce.
The Co-op’s findings suggest that breaking down these barriers could potentially add £200 billion to the UK’s GDP over the next decade. This has led to calls for government and businesses to implement effective strategies promoting social mobility. Claire Costello, Co-op’s Chief People and Inclusion Officer, stressed the moral and economic imperatives of addressing these issues.
The ongoing ‘Backgrounds into the Foreground’ campaign by Co-op urges that socioeconomic background be recognized as a protected characteristic under the 2010 Equality Act. This move aims to prevent discrimination based on social status both in workplaces and educational settings.
Addressing social mobility barriers is essential for unlocking both personal potential and economic growth in the UK.
