More than half (52%) of UK adults believe businesses should treat social mobility as a core part of their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) strategies, according to new research from The Co-operative. The findings highlight public concern that background factors such as accent, income and schooling still shape career opportunities.
Bright Network CEO, Kirsten Barnes, emphasised the importance of integrating social mobility into wider DEI efforts, urging employers to engage students early and provide inclusive opportunities through workshops, mentoring and partnerships.
Kirsten Barnes noted that ‘social mobility should be fully integrated into wider DEI initiatives.’ This helps to level the playing field for all graduates.