TWO FORRES BUSINESSES have welcomed the increase in UK and London rates announced by the Living Wage Foundation.
Both AJ Engineering and AES Solar became accredited as Living Wage employers in March – now they have acknowledged the increase announced as part of ‘Living Wage Week’ which began at the weekend.
There are now over 3500 employers who have voluntarily opted in to paying the real Living Wage – now the companies have committed to the increase that has been independently calculated to meet the cost of living. It will be implemented within six months.
The new UK rate announced by the Living Wage Foundation will apply to all staff over 18 and has increased by 30p an hour to £8.75. For those living in London, the rate will rise by 45pm to £10.20 per hour.
Jamie Di Sotto, commercial director with AES Solar, said he welcomed the increase: “We are proud to be part of the living wage initiative and we actually strive to pay above the living wage. It’s a win-win for us and not only helps our employees afford to live comfortably but also helps our business by improving motivation, and retaining and attracting a quality workforce.
“We chose to get the Living Wage accreditation as our staff are the best in the business and that’s why we develop and reward them fairly.”
Alan James, managing director with AJ Engineering shared a similar sentiment: “We are proud to implement this increase in pay and we are delighted to see that a fellow Forres business feels the same way.
“Paying the Living Wage is a win-win for us and not only helps our employees afford to live with dignity but also helps our business by improving motivation, and retaining and attracting a quality workforce. When we joined the scheme, 95% of our staff were on a rate higher than the Living Wage, however it was important for us to bring that 5% in line with this voluntary initiative.”
Katherine Chapman, Director of the Living Wage Foundation added: “Year-on-year, we see organisations and businesses across the UK embracing the real Living Wage as they recognise that a fair day’s pay is not only the right thing so to but can improve the quality of staff’s work, reduce absenteeism and increase motivation and retention.
“This week’s increase acknowledges that the cost of living continues to rise for workers everywhere and the leadership shown by businesses who welcome this is a cause for celebration during Living Wage Week, sending a positive message to the business community to show what others can achieve.”
For more information about Living Wage Week go to http://www.livingwage.org.uk/living-wage-week