'The Good Life?' - a report on social mobility
13 May 2026
Discussions about social mobility have traditionally focused on fairness and economic growth. Our latest research, ‘The Good Life?’ broadens this perspective by exploring how social mobility influences individual wellbeing and happiness. Conducted by the Sutton Trust, the UK’s leading social mobility charity, the research highlights how access to opportunity affects not just economic outcomes, but quality of life.
The findings reinforce the importance of action by government and business. Enabling people to fulfil their potential, regardless of background, brings benefits that extend beyond the individual. Greater wellbeing supports engagement in education and employment, helps people stay in work and reduces pressure on public services such as the NHS and the benefits system.
At a time of increased debate around inclusion and equality, the research underlines why social mobility matters. For business and government alike, it is not only an economic priority, but an important contributor to a healthy, resilient society, grounded in access to education, training and employment for all.