Why WIBF is marking Social Mobility Day: Let’s #ShiftMindsets for better business

At Women in Banking and Finance, we know that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. That’s why we’re proud to mark Social Mobility Day on 12 June 2025, joining organisations across the UK in a collective call to #ShiftMindsets.

Social Mobility Day is a moment to shine a light on the business benefits of a socio-economically diverse workforce – and to reflect on how we can go beyond good intentions to drive real change.

Moving from buzzword to action

All too often, “social mobility” is treated as a buzzword. It gets mentioned in ESG reports and mission statements, but little changes in practice. This year’s theme, #ShiftMindsets – is a powerful reminder that improving social mobility isn’t just about doing good. It’s about doing business better.

A workforce that draws from a wide range of social and economic backgrounds brings fresh perspectives, resilience, and stronger problem-solving skills. It also reflects the reality of the customers and communities we serve.

But to unlock these benefits, organisations need to look hard at their recruitment, promotion, and workplace culture and ask whether they are truly inclusive to people from less advantaged backgrounds.

Why it matters to WIBF

WIBF is committed to supporting the advancement of women of all backgrounds in the financial services sector. But we know that gender inequality cannot be tackled in isolation. Women who face additional barriers due to socio-economic background, race, disability, or other factors often remain locked out of opportunities, or find it harder to access the same networks, sponsorship, or visibility.

Marking Social Mobility Day is one way we show our support for intersectional inclusion—and our belief that background should never be a barrier.

We also know that for many, social mobility is deeply personal. It’s about navigating spaces that weren’t built with you in mind. It’s about fighting imposter syndrome. And it’s about believing you belong, even if you’re the first in your family to go to university, work in finance, or sit in a boardroom.

Let’s #ShiftMindsets together!

This year on Social Mobility Day, we’re encouraging all our members to get involved by sharing your stories.

Think about:
• A moment that challenged someone’s perception of you.
• A door that opened—and changed your path.
• A time you realised your background didn’t define your potential.

Your story might feel small, but these moments can help others feel seen, inspire confidence, and shift mindsets in powerful ways.

• How to get involved:
  Post your story on LinkedIn using the hashtag #ShiftMindsets.
• You can download the Social Mobility Day toolkit here.
• Tag us at Women in Banking & Finance – UK to share your story with our community.

Let’s fill our feeds and our minds with real-life examples of what’s possible when we challenge stereotypes and value potential over polish.

How WIBF is taking action: Partnering for impact

WIBF’s social mobility initiative connects our corporate members with expert organisations helping young people—particularly young women from low-income families—access finance careers.

These partnerships provide skills, networks, and exposure, breaking down barriers and supporting employers to build diverse pipelines and inclusive recruitment strategies.

We’re proud to work with: Career Ready, EY Foundation, Future Asset, Making the Leap and Tech She Can. You can find out more here.