Andrew Ranger MP for Wrexham has today published a report “Where We Are: A Report on the Social Mobility Landscape.”
The report is the culmination of sixth months of research and conversations with those in the sector including charities, organisations and those with lived experiences. Mr Ranger identifies 3 key challenges which are barriers to social mobility: Access and Awareness, Reaching the Quiet Middle and the Postcode Lottery.
The report recommends:
- Create a National Social Mobility Opportunities Hub
Work with government, employers, charities, and education providers to develop a single online platform where young people, parents, teachers, and MPs can access a centralised directory of social mobility programmes, mentorship schemes, internships, and apprenticeships. This would reduce fragmentation and ensure that no opportunity remains hidden.
- Development of a Rural Social Mobility Strategy
Commission a dedicated strategy to address rural and coastal social mobility challenges, drawing on data and lived experience. This would include improving digital infrastructure, funding for local transport initiatives, and incentivising employers to establish local outreach programmes in these areas.
- Expand Local Partnerships Between Business and Education
Expand schemes that foster collaboration between schools, colleges, and local employers—especially in rural areas—to create tangible career pipelines. These partnerships should include in-school visits, career events, workplace tasters, and co-designed vocational pathways.
- Leverage Data to Target Support More Effectively
Support the development of data-sharing protocols across relevant organisations to map social mobility cold spots more accurately. Encourage wider use of platforms like Zero Gravity to identify and nurture high-potential students in areas of low opportunity.
Mr Ranger concluded,
“Before becoming an MP, I spent over 30 years in the hospitality industry and now as an MP, I am determined to do whatever I can to help advance social mobility on both a local and national scale. A coalition around this along with greater joined up working is vital. The report summarises what is succeeding, the challenges faced, and viable solutions to them. I do not claim to be right or wrong but merely reflective, hopeful, and ambitious.”
The report can be viewed on Mr Ranger’s website here
*ENDS*
