Consultation launched into boosting social mobility in the workplace

The Cabinet Office has launched a consultation to identify and boost social mobility in workplaces across the UK.

At the moment there is no agreed way of measuring socio-economic background between employers and the consultation will seek to develop national common measures, with a view to implementing them later in 2016.

Employers including Deloitte, Accenture, O2, Linklaters, KPMG, Barclays, EY, Baker & McKenzie, Grant Thornton, the Bank of England and Teach First have been working with the Cabinet Office to develop the new measures.

Potential measures include: what postcode an individual lived in at a young age; whether they are eligible or have received free school meals; their parents’ professions, qualifications, and income or wealth; whether a parent, guardian or carer is eligible or receiving income support; whether an individual is working during term time at University; name or type of school attended; and whether time has been spent in care or have been a carer.

Matt Hancock said: “Social justice is at the heart of everything this one nation government is trying to achieve. Our goal is simple: to make sure everyone has the opportunity to succeed and make the most of their talents, whatever the circumstances of their birth.

“We are tackling the last workplace taboo. We British don’t always like to discuss things like our parents’ background, particularly at work. But you can’t manage what you can’t measure.

“We are determined to lead the way, which is why we are working with major employers to develop a national measure for social mobility so we can take action and break down barriers to employment.”