Socio-economic background and career progression within the UK Civil Service

This case study explores how socio-economic background – often referred to as social class – impacts career progression within the UK Civil Service. Despite ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusion, evidence indicates that an individual’s class background significantly shapes their career trajectory within the public sector. The case of career progression within the UK Civil Service provides a unique perspective on social mobility and equal opportunities. It shows how individuals from various economic and social classes navigate their career paths, highlighting both the explicit and subtle ways in which class influences professional advancement.