The Department for Business and Trade has received living wage employer accreditation from the Living Wage Foundation.
The accreditation means that all of the department’s directly employed staff, as well as regularly contracted workers such as cleaners and security staff, will be paid at least the real living wage.
The rate is set by the Living Wage Foundation each year based on the cost of living. Across the UK, the rate is £13.45 per hour, rising to £14.80 per hour for those in London.
By becoming an accredited living wage employer, the Department for Business and Trade has committed to going further than the legal minimum to ensure its workers are paid a wage that reflects everyday living costs. It is part of its aim to demonstrate leadership in promoting fair pay and good employment practices.
Kate Dearden, employment rights minister, said: “I am passionate about creating workplaces where people are treated with dignity and respect, and having been accredited as a living wage employer, I am proud that my department is just that. I am delighted we are the trailblazer that other government departments can follow, ensuring a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work and providing the backing working people in this country deserve.”
Katherine Chapman, executive director of the Living Wage Foundation, added: “This is a powerful demonstration of leadership and a clear commitment to fair pay and decent work. By ensuring that all staff and contracted workers are paid a real living wage, the Department for Business and Trade is making a meaningful difference to people’s lives and setting an important example for the wider public sector.
“We hope to see other UK government departments follow their lead. Paying a real living wage is fundamental to building a stronger, fairer economy.”
