Richmond Council has been shortlisted as a finalist for the Public Sector Organisation of the Year, along with Wandsworth Council, at the UK Social Mobility Awards.

This recognition underscores the Council's commitment to social mobility and to creating a fairer borough with opportunities for all residents.

Richmond Council has led the way in this area, making socio-economic class a protected characteristic under the Equality Act. 

Cllr Nancy Baldwin, Spokesperson for Communities, Equalities and the Voluntary Sector, said: "We are dedicated to creating a fairer borough in Richmond, consistently incorporating social mobility into all our initiatives.

"I'd like to extend my gratitude to Council staff and partners for their efforts in enhancing social mobility in the borough over the past year."

She continued: "There is much more to achieve, but we should take pride in being shortlisted as a Social Mobility Awards finalist."

The UK Social Mobility Awards recognise action that has promoted and increased social mobility in the workplace.

The awards seek to elevate social mobility as a cause equal to the level of other important diversity issues.

Richmond's awards submission showed the Council's support for those disproportionately impacted by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Richmond Council allocated £4.5 million to the Cost-of-Living fund, delivering frontline support to those in need in the borough and the implementation of initiatives for the development of all staff.

The council's commitment to doubling the completion rates for affordable homes between 2022/23 and 2023/24 was also highlighted.

Affordable and stable housing has a hugely beneficial impact on one's social mobility as it provides security in many other areas, including education, employment, relationships and community. 

The submission also emphasised how practical support for lower-income residents is key to boosting social mobility in the borough.

By March 2024, the Work Match initiative in Richmond had supported around 150 residents into employment since its establishment in 2020.

The scheme helps identify and unlock employment opportunities for local residents and introduces businesses to suitable candidates they might not otherwise have connected with.

Richmond and Wandsworth Councils have been shortlisted alongside five other public sector organisations across the country.

The winners will be announced at a gala event on 3 October.

Find out more here.