Results of a study for government by the Social Mobility Commission in Britain was published today. The study illustrates serious concerns on social mobility in the UK, with many only managing to find a better career if they move to London!
The Social Mobility Commission’s study breaks the UK down into ‘cold’ and ‘hot’ spots in terms of social mobility. The Commission then looked at differences between people from cold areas who chose to stay, and those who move from cold to hot areas.
The study shows that only 35% of people those who choose to stay in cold areas have degree-level education, and they are 14% less likely to get to attain a ‘higher occupation level’. People who remain in cold areas only have a 39% chance of being employed in a managerial role. People staying in cold areas have an average earning of £1739 per month.
In comparison, those who move from cold areas into a hot area, such as London, have a much better chance of finding ‘higher occupation level’ work. 42% of those who move to hot areas are able to find managerial work without the need for a degree-level education; In comparison, only 28% of those who stay in cold areas can find managerial work without degree-level education.
Those who move from cold to hot areas (or who live in hot areas) have an average wage of £2327, £588 per month higher than people who in some cases are living a matter of streets away!
The results of the study is a wake-up call to Government, as it very clearly shows that the UK has major issues with Social Mobility; with data showing that if you the best chance of career success, with or without higher education, you have to move to London or another hot area.
The Mobility commissions study also shows that those from more privileged backgrounds are more likely to move to prosperous areas and that they have better opportunities than those from poorer backgrounds.
Although, there is a ray of light for those who would prefer to ‘stay at home’. The report documents how those who choose to stay in their home area often benefit from greater well-being and sense of community. As much as 64% of those who stayed owned their home, while only 55% of movers own property. It is thought that the homeownership leads to lower living costs, more personal connection (friends) and in general a Quality of life.
In conclusion, the report clearly shows that social mobility in the UK is in a bad shape; with people forced to literally be mobile, as opposed to experiencing social mobility (ie into a better job, better home, more wealth and happiness); with some areas of England, like the North-east, seeming more like a social island that people have to emigrate from to the far-off English hot-lands if they want the best chance of being ‘successful’.
The commission concludes the report by stating “There are vast geographical inequalities in opportunity and prosperity in Great Britain.” In short, You can move to London, work hard and get rich, or take the gamble, stay at home and have a happer life.
What would you prefer?
Read the complete report – Here.
Would you prefer to stay home and have a better quality of life, or move to a hot area and get rich quicker?Let us know!
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter and tell us what you think!