People from working class backgrounds more likely to have low wellbeing, data finds

Research from the Sutton Trust, supported by Co-op, found people from working class backgrounds are a third more likely to have low wellbeing than those from professional backgrounds. 

The report looked at social mobility and wellbeing, showing that those who move into higher status jobs are much happier than those who stay in lower socio-economic groups as adults.

The research showed that childhood social class has a lasting impact even for those who are upwardly mobile. 

People were three times more likely to have high wellbeing if they had a strong sense of belonging to their community, no matter where they lived.

Those who see themselves as having overcome obstacles and moved upwards report high satisfaction. 

The Sutton Trust and Co-op called for government action to break down social and economic barriers and improve life quality beyond just financial progress.

Nick Harrison, CEO of the Sutton Trust, said: “Social mobility hugely improves people’s lives, but it doesn’t always guarantee happiness. 

“Even when people climb the social ladder, their long-term wellbeing is still shaped by where they started.