A new campaign to get deprived young Londoners into top jobs has been backed by mayor Sadiq Khan.
Studies show that youngsters in the capital from poorer backgrounds are far less likely to graduate into professional careers than their peers in any other region in England.
In London, young people from working class backgrounds occupy just 17% of professional roles, despite scoring higher grades in GCSE and A Levels exams. The national average is 30%, according to research by consulting firm Oliver Wyman.
London Bridge the Gap has been set up to improve social mobility in the city with events, advice and guest speakers.
An app, where job seekers can create a profile to showcase their skills and achievements, will also help connect young Londoners to top firms in the City and high profile employers.
Mr Khan said: “This is a great campaign to connect young Londoners with employers who can help them as they take their first steps into the world of work.
“I’m committed to providing all young people with high-quality careers education through my Careers Hubs and partnerships like this one with the City of London Academies Trust are key to ensuring we are able to reach the young people who need the most support."
The initiative is chaired by Mark Emmerson, the CEO of the City of London Academies Trust, which runs 10 schools in the capital sponsored by the City Corporation.
He said: “London employers are also facing labour shortages and there are a vast array of small organisations, charities and individuals attempting to address these issues primarily at a local micro level.
“The aim of London Bridge the Gap is to bring more unity of purpose to social mobility initiatives in London."
