JLL maintains ranking as a Top 10 UK employer for social mobility

JLL has once again been recognised as one of the UK’s employers who has the most commitment to improving social mobility within the UK. The property firm maintains its Top 10 employer position in the Social Mobility Employer Index 2020 for the second year running.

With the COVID-19 pandemic having a negative impact on social mobility and reducing the opportunities for young people from disadvantaged areas, the role of employers in the levelling up agenda is more important than ever.

The Social Mobility Foundation’s Social Mobility Index is an annual benchmarking initiative which is now in its fourth year. It ranks UK employers on the actions they are taking to ensure they are open to accessing and progressing talent from all backgrounds, therefore showcasing progress towards improving social mobility and the opportunities provided to people from different social class backgrounds.

Employers are assessed across seven key areas. These include their work with young people, routes into the company, how they attract talent, recruitment and selection, data collection, progression, experienced hires, and advocacy.

Richard Howling, Chief Operating Officer at JLL and trustee of the JLL UK foundation, said: “If there was ever a time for businesses to turn their attention to improving social mobility in the UK, the time is now. As a result of the JLL UK Foundation commissioning a report published by the Bridge Group we know that the real estate sector must improve its approach to social mobility. At JLL, we believe that socio-economic diversity is essential for the future of our business. We are pleased to be listed as a Top 10 employer but there is still much more to do by both JLL and the wider real estate industry.”

Sarah Atkinson, Chief Executive of the Social Mobility Foundation, added: “I am delighted that JLL committed to entering the Index this year despite the challenges they have faced in the wake of the pandemic. Now more than ever, we need to see businesses play their part in the levelling up agenda.”

About the Social Mobility Foundation

The Social Mobility Foundation (SMF) is a charity that aims to make practical improvements in social mobility for young people from low-income backgrounds both through programme work and through its advocacy and campaigning arm, the Department for Opportunities (DO). It runs free-of-charge programmes including mentoring; internships; university application support (including trips to universities and help with personal statements, aptitude tests and interviews); and career and skills workshops to support young people through their sixth form and university years.