Social Mobility Isn’t Equal: Why “Work Hard and You’ll Succeed” Isn’t True for Everyone

February 21, 2026.Reading time 7 minutes.

We’re told the same story over and over. If you work hard, you’ll get ahead.If you try harder, you’ll succeed.If you fail, it’s because you didn’t want it enough. It sounds motivating. But it isn’t true. Because social mobility isn’t equal — and pretending it is only hides the real problem. Not Everyone Starts From […]

Who Deserves Help? And Why We Keep Getting This Question Wrong

February 13, 2026.Reading time 5 minutes.

Somewhere along the way, we started treating help like a reward. Like something people have to earn.Prove.Justify. Instead of something given because someone is struggling. And that mindset is doing real harm. The “Deserving” Narrative We hear it all the time: “They should just work harder.”“They made bad choices.”“They shouldn’t have had kids.”“They should budget […]

“You’re 18, You’re Free”… But What Now? A Post for Care Leavers

July 5, 2025.Reading time 4 minutes.

If you’ve just left care — or you’re about to — let me say this first:You’re not alone, and you’re not expected to have it all figured out. I won’t lie — the moment you turn 18, the world expects a lot from you. One minute you’re in foster care, a residential home, or supported […]

Challenge Perception

August 14, 2013.Reading time 7 minutes.

I’ve heard some things this week that triggered reflection of the last 18 years and got me thinking about perception. Whilst on the commute to London on Monday morning, I overheard a man talking on his phone who uttered the line “I shout at you to motivate you” My mouth aghast, that anyone could even […]