KPMG, Sodexo, Lloyds Banking Group, and Microsoft were among the recipients of this year’s UK Social Mobility Awards, known as the Somos. The awards, now in their tenth year, recognize organisations and individuals making significant contributions to improving social mobility across the country.

The Somos Awards honor achievements in several categories, including overall organisation, social mobility networks, recruitment programmes, and leadership. Each category highlights different aspects of efforts aimed at fostering equitable opportunities for individuals from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

Tunde Banjoko, the founder of the Somos Awards, emphasized the growing importance of social mobility in the UK. He noted that a decade after the awards’ inception, social mobility has increasingly become a national priority, reflecting broader societal and business commitments to driving inclusivity and reducing barriers to advancement.

The recognition of these prominent companies underscores their role in promoting policies and initiatives that support talent development and career progression for underrepresented groups. Through their programmes and leadership, the awarded organisations demonstrate ongoing efforts to create pathways that help individuals overcome structural inequalities in education and employment.

While specific details of the winning initiatives were not disclosed, the Somos Awards continue to serve as a platform to elevate best practices and encourage other entities to intensify their focus on social mobility. The awards also aim to foster collaboration among businesses, public sector bodies, and community organisations to advance shared goals in this area.