Deputy Chair delivers keynote at United Nations Global Compact Network’s social mobility report launch

Resham Kotecha, Deputy Chair of the Social Mobility Commission, addressed a room of business leaders, policymakers and regional stakeholders at the launch event of the UN Global Compact Network’s new social mobility report, in partnership with Slaughter and May. 

The report, Unlocking Regional Barriers to Social Mobility: Insights and Recommendations for Business and Policymakers, examines the regional disparities shaping social mobility across the UK.

The report is based on insights from consultations in Belfast, Cardiff, Leeds, Glasgow, and Exeter, capturing the lived experiences of businesses, local authorities, and civil society across UK regions and also draws on evidence from the Social Mobility Commission’s State of the Nation and Data Explorer Tool. 

During her speech, Resham welcomed the report’s emphasis on regional inequality, the need for place-based solutions and wider economic growth being fundamental in increasing opportunities and socio-economic inclusion. 

Key findings from the report show:

• Persistent regional inequalities: Economic and social outcomes vary significantly across the UK, with rural, post-industrial, and peripheral areas particularly affected.
• Fragmented approaches: Limited cross-sector collaboration and inconsistent use of socio-economic data hinder effective action.
• Barriers beyond skills: Mindsets, workplace inclusion, transport access, and a complex apprenticeship system limit participation and progression.

Tackling regional disparities through localised approaches, greater stakeholder collaboration and devolving more decision-making to local leaders is something the Social Mobility Commission has long called for. Our data has continually shown barriers to opportunity that are unique to different regional profiles across the UK, such as post-industrial, coastal and rural regions. 

The report’s focus on the importance of economic growth is also welcomed by the Commission, having long emphasised the importance of growing the amount of opportunity across the country..  

Resham Kotecha, Deputy Chair of the Social Mobility Commission, said: 

“Growing opportunity is fundamental to ensuring that no one has to move down the ladder for others to climb it. Increased opportunity drives more active local economies, stronger investment, and unlocks talent that might otherwise be overlooked. It really is a win-win – for individuals, businesses, and society.

“This report echoes our research at the Social Mobility Commission, which highlights stark regional differences across the UK. Too often, postcodes shape people’s futures before they have the chance to choose their own path. But no two regions face identical challenges – we must devolve decision-making to those on the ground and strengthen collaboration between local businesses, schools, and government to tackle geographic inequality.”

Steve Kenzie, Executive Director of UN Global Compact Network UK said:

“This report demonstrates that advancing social mobility is a clear business opportunity…

“Companies that actively widen access to opportunity strengthen their talent pipelines, improve employee engagement and retention, and build a more productive, resilient workforce.”

Explore the United Nations Global Compact Network’s findings and recommendations 

Read the Social Mobility Commissions reports on the importance of place-based approaches and the intersection of economic growth and improving social mobility here: 

• Regional Insights
• Innovation, investment and inclusion: a framework for regional renewal 
• State of the Nation 

The Social Mobility Commission will take the report to our Employer Advisory Group, made up of business leaders, to discuss actions businesses can take to help drive social mobility, reduce barriers and unlock new talent.