We are continuing our efforts to support staff during the Cost-of-Living Crisis after pledging to pay the real Living Wage six months early.
The hourly pay rate is independently calculated by the Resolution Foundation – based on what people in the UK need to earn to afford a decent standard of living – and is paid voluntarily by employers.
The price of childcare, transport, heating and housing are all taken into account when the rate is set.
The rate for 2024, overseen by the Living Wage Commission, was announced late last month as £12, an increase of £1.10, and employers have six months – until April next year – to implement this.
The Council has been a real Living Wage Employer since 2011 and continues to champion the real Living Wage cause so that staff feel they are valued, and their well-being is important.
Fiona Walker, Head of Service for People & ICT, said: “Our employees’ well-being and standard of living are very important to us.
“Many continue to face challenging times during the Cost-of-Living Crisis, and paying this increased rate now can help make a difference.
“The decision to pay the new rate as soon as we could is vital in ensuring that staff earn a wage they can actually live on and have a good standard of life.”
The announcement will have a positive impact on 788 Council employees working in predominantly frontline roles.
Living Wage Week ran from November 6 to 12, and you can find out more about the Real Living Wage online at https://scottishlivingwage.org/
If you need help with Cost-of-Living support please visit our own dedicated webpage at https://www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/cost-of-living/
Here, you will find a wide range of advice on energy, benefits, food and clothing, health and wellbeing and a section dedicated to our business community.
There is a handy Council information leaflet online here https://tinyurl.com/43bj33ec that gives information about clothing grants and free school meals, Council Tax reduction, Community Larders and more.
“Our employees’ well-being and standard of living are very important to us.Fiona Walker, Head of Service for People & ICT