Social mobility symposium, Manchester

We are pleased to announce the Social Mobility Commission's inaugural Social mobility symposium 2025. 

Held over 2 days - one in London and one in Manchester - the Symposium will challenge conventional thinking about social mobility and will explore innovations, share best practices, and generate debate on how we can take action on some of the critical causes and drivers of socio-economic disadvantage.

We will be bringing together organisations and individuals from across parliament, the public, private and third sector, encompassing the social mobility landscape. 

This invite is for the Manchester day. 

Date: Monday 15 September 2025

Venue: Manchester Hall, 36 Bridge St, Greater Manchester M3 3BT

Timings:
09.15 - 09.45 - Arrival and registration
09.45 - 10.30 - Opening address and keynote speaker
10.30 - 11.00 - Break
11.00 - 12.00 - Expert panel 
12.00 - 13.00 - Lunch
13.05 - 14.00 - Afternoon fringe event 1
14.00 - 14.15 - Break
14.20 - 15.15 - Afternoon fringe event 2
15.30 - 16.45 - Expert panels and closing remarks 

Attendees can look forward to insightful keynote speakers and expert panel discussions. Confirmed speakers include Minister of State at the Department for Work and Pensions Alison McGovern, Baroness Alison Wolf, the Leader of Manchester City Council Cllr Bev Craig and others.

Additionally, you will have the opportunity to attend fringe events we are co-hosting with a range of partners including The Institute for Public Policy Research, Public First, Northern Powerhouse Partnership and Young Foundation, where you can gain new insights, hear from leading experts, and explore innovative ideas related to the day's themes. It's an opportunity to expand your understanding, stay informed about current trends, and participate in engaging discussions. Registrations for the fringe events will be shared in August.

Any questions, please contact the Social Mobility Commission team on: symposium@socialmobilitycommission.gov.uk