The Invisible Burden: Unveiling the Family Pressures Faced by Employees from Low Socioeconomic Backgrounds

We often talk about diversity and inclusion in the workplace, focusing on creating equal opportunities and breaking down barriers. While we champion these efforts, there is an often-overlooked aspect of a diverse and system impacted employee's life that significantly impacts their performance and well-being – the unique family issues faced by individuals from low socioeconomic backgrounds. As someone who has experienced these challenges first-hand, I want to shed light on this topic and emphasise the importance of recognising and supporting employees beyond their professional roles.

The Sole Provider Syndrome:

Imagine being the only person in your family with a stable job and a decent education. Suddenly, you become the go-to person for every financial and personal issue your family members and friends face. This role places immense pressure on individuals from low socioeconomic backgrounds, who are burdened with the responsibility of sorting out problems ranging from financial struggles to personal crises. While employees may not openly discuss these challenges with their employers, it is crucial to understand the impact they have on their overall well-being and performance. Yes indeed it is the thing that constantly builds upon an individual resilience, but also the silent assassin on your mental health.

The Silent Struggle:

One of the reasons these challenges go unnoticed is because employees rarely share their personal struggles with their employers in fear of being judged. Despite their personal lives being in turmoil, these resilient individuals continue to show up, give their best, and wear a smile at work. Their daily conversations around the dinner table if they have one, revolve around stories of struggle rather than career advancements. It is crucial that employers create a safe space where employees feel comfortable discussing their difficulties and seeking support.

Community-Specific Challenges:

The effects of growing up in disadvantaged communities extend beyond economic limitations. For instance, if you are from an Afro-Caribbean or African background, your family members may be disproportionately affected by injustices, racial profiling, and limited job opportunities. You might witness young relatives falling victim to knife crime or being lured into gang culture due to the lack of viable alternatives for a better future. Similarly, individuals from refugee backgrounds often face deportation fears, grief from the loss of loved ones, and the constant pressure to support their families, leading to potential risks and compromised well-being.

A Deprived System's Impact:

Coming from a deprived background not only limits opportunities for employment and education but also creates a cycle of struggle within families. Lack of resources and support further exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals. The burden of providing for the entire family falls on the shoulders of one person, leaving them little time and energy to focus on personal growth or professional development.

The Hidden Stories:

Many employees from low socioeconomic backgrounds choose to keep their personal struggles hidden, wearing a smile at work while their family issues remain unaddressed. These individuals show up each day, giving their best despite their invisible burdens. Imagine the conversations within their family networks revolving around struggle rather than jobs and promotions. It is imperative that employers acknowledge these unseen challenges and extend support beyond the workplace.

Embracing Social Mobility:

To create real change and foster social mobility, we must look beyond the surface and actively engage with candidates from disadvantaged and system impacted backgrounds. By reaching out and identifying if a candidate has family members in need of job training or employment pathways, we can break the cycle of relying on a single individual to support their entire family. This approach not only benefits the employee but also reduces the overwhelming pressure they face.

As employers, recruiters and EDI services, we have the power to make a profound impact on the lives of our employees and their families. This is something Bridge of Hope Careers have got right. By understanding the unique challenges faced by individuals from low socioeconomic backgrounds, we can create inclusive workplaces that go beyond equal opportunities. Let us challenge the status quo, bridge employment barriers, and offer support and training to those who need it most. Together, we can create a society where social mobility thrives, and the weight of an entire family's hopes and dreams is shared among many.

Promoting Social Mobility:

To foster better social mobility and alleviate the overwhelming burden on these individuals, employers and recruiters need to think differently. Here are a few suggestions:

Proactive Outreach: Reach out across employment barriers to identify candidates from disadvantaged backgrounds. Seek opportunities to provide training, internships, or pathways to employment for family members who are in need.

Supportive Work Environment: Create a culture of open communication and empathy. Encourage employees to share their personal challenges, ensuring they have access to resources like counseling or support groups.

Mentorship and Development: Offer mentorship programs to help employees navigate personal and professional challenges. Providing career development opportunities can contribute to long-term success and financial stability for their families.

I am passionate about social mobility and its transformative potential. If you would like to learn more about the experiences and perspectives of individuals from low socioeconomic backgrounds or discuss innovative ways to enhance social mobility within your organisation, I am available to speak to your recruitment teams. I will be joined by my partner in Hope James Fellowes . Together, let's think differently and achieve better social mobility results.

Remember, the success of your employees is not limited to their professional achievements alone. It extends to the well-being and growth of their families, their communities, and society as a whole. Together, we can make a difference.

Written By Chance Bleu-Montgomery

Contact: [email protected] ?or DM me if you are interested in a free webinar on all things social mobility and inclusive hiring. Our keynote begins with personal stories that will have a truly high impact and land your team on the ‘why’ social mobility matter!