Innovation Generation: next steps for social mobility

In September 2024 we published our annual State of the Nation report. In addition we have published numerous reports, papers and think pieces on subjects ranging from the value of qualifications in the labour market and the effects of growing up in a deprived area to the data practices required to improve our understanding of social mobility. Now, drawing on these recent publications, we set out our interpretation of the evidence.

Innovation Generation, sets out our new approach to social mobility, to ensure that more opportunities are available for a broader range of people.

Traditional approaches to social mobility are failing to give opportunities to all. We don’t believe in a one size fits all approach. Social mobility is likely to mean different things, to different people, in different places. And policymakers should be sensitive to this.

The key role of economy and geography. Economic growth is crucial to social mobility. National and local policy-makers should think about how they can improve growth and productivity, with a focus on innovation and on linking up skills development with local employment.

A place-based strategy is also essential. Our State of the Nation 2024 revealed big geographical disparities in social mobility outcomes with the lowest opportunities generally found in post-industrial, coastal and rural areas.

Skills and training Traditionally, social mobility policy has focused too much on supporting a minority of disadvantaged young people into university attendance and professional jobs. We should be thinking much more about how to support those who don’t go to university, and particularly those with no qualifications at all. A range of robust vocational options is crucial.

Download a pdf of the report or read the HTML version Innovation Generation is also available in Welsh and in a Easy Read format.