The relationship between poor health and social mobility

Descriptions

The relationship between poor health and disadvantage is well established. However, there is little evidence of the impact of poor physical health on social mobility. It is often assumed that poor health would be a barrier to social mobility but there is currently no evidence to confirm this. The Social Mobility Commission is inviting proposals to undertake a study into the relationship between poor health and social mobility. This research forms part of the Social Mobility Commission's role to produce relevant research that provides new data and insights on social mobility in the UK. There are a range of ailments that can lead to someone being defined as in 'poor health'. The research will investigate different types of ailments and their impact on social mobility, whether they are linked to a lack of upward mobility or even linked to downward mobility, and whether there is a causal relationship. The research will investigate the different strategies adopted in different regions to reduce ill-health and whether these have impacted upon social mobility. This work compliments a similar project for which we are inviting proposals regarding social mobility and mental health.