In anticipation of the Social Mobility Commission’s forthcoming annual State of the Nation report, which is expected to show that social mobility is, yet again, falling backwards, this new report by Local Trust and 3ni highlights how social capital can transform social mobility in the most disadvantaged communities across England.
Bridging the Divide: The Hidden Power of Social Capital to Drive Social Mobility, argues that policies focused solely on education and individual talent have failed to address entrenched social inequalities. A new approach is needed argue Local Trust. Instead, a neighbourhood-level approach that strengthens local economies and community networks offers a more sustainable route to improving social mobility and could be a vital route out of poverty for some of England’s most disadvantaged communities.
Social Capital is defined by Ichiro Kawachi (2006) as “a network-based process: that is the resources available to individuals and communities through their social networks, ties, and social support” which foster trust and connection.
Szreter and Woolcock (2004) identify three distinct types of social capital:
- Bonding social capital refers to close networks among family and friends that offer emotional and practical support. It builds trust and cohesion, which reinforces connections based on shared backgrounds and experiences.
- Bridging social capital connects people across diverse groups, promoting inclusivity and linking individuals with different backgrounds. It helps communities access broader resources and new ideas.
- Linking social capital connects people to institutions of authority, such as government agencies, providing access to resources and support beyond the local community.
The report identifies four key lessons on how social capital can drive upward social mobility:
- Bridging social capital drives upward mobility. Networks that extend beyond immediate family and friends are the most effective at connecting individuals to opportunities and resources across different social groups.
- Bonding social capital is a double-edged sword. Strong community ties provide support but can limit access to opportunities elsewhere. Communities benefit most when bonding and bridging social capital are cultivated together.
- Education is not the sole driver of mobility. Active participation in formal networks, such as voluntary organisations, community groups, and civic activities, enhances bridging social capital and access to educational and employment opportunities.
- Workplace connections are vital. Professional networks and informal interactions in the workplace and university significantly influence career progression and access to opportunities.
The report also provides three recommendations to promote community-level social mobility:
- Strengthen all forms of social capital, particularly bridging capital through volunteering, shared public spaces, and resident-led governance.
- Address geographic inequalities with sustained investment in disadvantaged areas to create local employment opportunities and reduce the need for young people to relocate to advance their careers.
- Enable communities to become ‘growth ready’ by supporting skills development, tackling anti-social behaviour, improving local infrastructure, and fostering local business development.
Rachel Rowney, chief executive at Local Trust, commented:
“Our life chances are shaped by where we are born and later live and for too many people that means a limit on aspiration. Local Trust’s work over more than a decade has shown that policy focused on regional inequality often masks the reality of stark hyperlocal inequalities which subsequently go unaddressed.
“Social mobility is a neighbourhood issue and Big Local has shown the value of investment in tackling inequality and improving opportunity at the neighbourhood level. By working alongside communities to build social capital and strengthen local economies, we can create the conditions for long-term renewal in every part of the country. When residents are trusted and supported to lead, they unlock the potential within their neighbourhoods and that benefits us all.”
Dan Crowe, Director of 3ni, said:
“We need to move away from the outdated idea that success means leaving your family, friends and community behind. Social mobility isn’t about getting out of the place you call home. It’s about being able to move up without having to move away.
“This report clearly shows we need to rethink our approach to social mobility. Social mobility is about making sure people can thrive where they are. We know from our work in communities up and down the country that’s what social capital does. It gives people strong local networks and opens doors to new opportunities for whole neighbourhoods – not just a lucky few.”
The report builds on 3ni and Local Trust’s ongoing work supporting community-led regeneration and highlights the critical role of place-based policies in reducing inequality.
Read the report now.