Episode 5: Breaking down barriers - Social mobility in tech

In this episode, Jess Ridout speaks to Katy Hampshire, Director of Programmes at the UK’s leading social mobility charity, The Sutton Trust, to explore the importance of increasing socioeconomic diversity in tech. 

While the sector has made some progress when it comes to gender and ethnicity, Katy unpacks why continuing to drive social mobility is vital for both individuals and the broader UK economy. Katy and Jess discuss the current state of play, including how tech is behind other sectors such as finance and law, and look at steps organisations can take to create more opportunities for talented people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

Tune in as Katy outlines how The Sutton Trust is helping young people through initiatives such as its Careers Plus Tech and Digital Programme, and shares stories of those now thriving in competitive industries because of the charity’s early support.

Got a question or an idea for our next episode? Email us at poppodcast@baesystems.com

Learn more about The Sutton Trust: https://www.suttontrust.com/

Read more about The Sutton Trust’s Careers Plus Tech and Digital Programme: https://www.suttontrust.com/news-opinion/all-news-opinion/breaking-down-barriers-to-careers-in-tech-and-consulting/

References:

• https://www.techtalentcharter.co.uk/reports/diversity-in-tech-report-2024/
• https://www.techuk.org/resource/techuk-growth-plan.html
• https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ai-opportunities-action-plan/ai-opportunities-action-plan
• https://reports.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Future_of_Jobs_Report_2025.pdf