Bus organisation Go North West, a Bee Network franchise operator in Greater Manchester, has received real living wage accreditation as part of its commitment to ensure its 1,000 employees are paid fairly for the work they do.
The accreditation will see every Go North West employee receive a minimum hourly wage of £12, which is the real living wage rate for staff across the UK. This is higher than the current government minimum wage for workers over the age of 21, which is £11.44.
The Living Wage Foundation calculates the rate based on the actual cost of living and what people need to make ends meet. It is voluntary and is intended to offer a more realistic rate than the national living wage.
Go North West stated that this is evidence of its dedication in supporting and valuing its greatest asset, its employees. It also achieved supporter status for Greater Manchester's Good Employment Charter, which aligns with its values and is testament to its focus on employee wellbeing.
Connor Lomas, head of people at Go North West, said: “We recognise the key role our employees play in serving and connecting the areas where we all live. We want to support our staff and these communities by fulfilling our responsibility as a major employer in Greater Manchester. By partnering with the real Living Wage Foundation we’re in great company, as we join more than 15,000 accredited employers. We’re really proud to be a part of the movement.”
Go North West offers its employees complementary travel passes for them and their family after three months, 20 days of annual leave plus eight bank holidays, which rises to 25 days after two years of service, and employer-paid medical assessments associated with licence renewal and driving test fees. It also pays for PCV Driver Training and associated licence, driving test and medical test costs for new starters.
