Commission talks to Blackpool leaders about boosting social mobility in the UK

The Social Mobility Commission (SMC) is meeting with Blackpool community leaders to discuss ways to boost social mobility and economic development in the region.

SMC data shows clear inequalities across the country, captured in our regional analysis of mobility rates and drivers.The SMC report, State of the Nation 2023, revealed significant regional disparities in social and educational mobility across the UK. 

The report shows that Blackpool faces particular challenges in relation to social mobility.
Lancashire ranked in the bottom 20% for prospects for young people, a measure looking at education levels, access to professional jobs and hourly wages, and in the top 40% for high levels of childhood poverty and disadvantage.

That's why the Commission is in Blackpool: to hear from and work with community leaders. As we learn what makes geographical outcomes for social mobility across the UK so different. 

SMC Commissioners will meet with local businesses, charity leaders, and council members to learn more about their approach to increasing opportunities for their local residents. They will also be given a tour of the Blackpool Enterprise Zone and learn more about the diverse further education training the city offers.

The visits centre on three fundamental areas identified by the SMC: Growing Opportunities, Nurturing Talent, and Developing Skills and Talent. As it develops its policy positions, the SMC wants to engage a range of local leaders in improving and promoting prospects in areas like Blackpool. The discussion will feed into the Commission's work to better inform public debate about how social mobility mean can be enhanced and highlight what works.

Blackpool Enterprise Zone
A focal point of the SMC’s visit will be the Blackpool Enterprise Zone, a significant catalyst for local development since its establishment in 2016. Spanning 144 hectares near Blackpool Airport, the Zone aims to create 5,000 new jobs by 2041, with 2,500 jobs already achieved by November 2023. Managed by Blackpool Council on behalf of Blackpool and Fylde Councils, the Enterprise Zone also offers commercial property opportunities, driving SME business growth and employment in the region. 

A highlight of the visit will be Commissioner Parminder Kohli's tour of the Lancashire Energy HQ, led by Scott Cubitt, Head of Engineering at Blackpool and The Fylde College. This tour, including an exclusive look at the cutting-edge Nuclear Simulator, will underline the significant advancements in technical and professional education.

Parminder Kohli said: "The Commission is keen to look at these exciting opportunities in
Blackpool to see how we can develop skills and boost innovation and economic growth in areas with similar demographics and challenges across the UK. The aim is to learn from local businesses and the people who have a real understanding of what challenges need to be overcome so that we can identify the best ways to improve prospects for all in these and similar areas.”

Scott Cubitt said: “We are pleased that the Commission has come to Blackpool to gain a better understanding of social mobility here. We are particularly pleased they have taken an interest in the role of Further Education because we have a unique role in supporting those with the least opportunity whilst also working with local businesses to grow the local economy.”

Board Members will also visit other initiatives to help young people in Blackpool, including the Boathouse Youth Charity—with trips to several of its youth centres—and the Fleetwood Nautical College, one of the UK’s top nautical institutions. They hope engaging with community leaders on the ground will teach them more about increasing opportunities and developing skills and talent crucial for fostering social mobility.