Lack of socioeconomic diversity highlighted in journalism

You’ve got to see it to be it but it’s still too often the case in some professions there are simply not the role models. 

A new report, UK Journalists in the 2020s, sheds light on the socioeconomic background of journalists: 91% university educated and a higher percentage privately educated (22% at secondary school levels) than is the case for the general population. Only 12% of UK journalists grew up in a working-class household and those who had a parent who worked in one of the three most privileged categories of occupation - 71% - were more likely to be employed by the national media. 

The research provides some interesting insights, reinforcing previous studies which found that journalism has become increasingly socially exclusive. It is clear that people from poorer backgrounds or ethnic minorities are not able to pursue careers in the sector compared to those with better family connections and social networks.

Law and accountancy have faced similar charges but, recognising that talent is found everywhere, many firms are now making changes to ensure that they recruit and retain a workforce that reflects the communities they serve as well as providing the relevance and perspective that is good for business.  

Professions, including journalism, must start more seriously to consider how they can begin to break down the barriers that get in the way of a fairer society.