West Lothian College has been accredited as a living wage employer by the Living Wage Foundation, in partnership with Scottish campaigning body Poverty Alliance.
The living wage accreditation confirms that the Scottish education facility has committed to pay its 360 direct employees, as well as any third-party contractors, at least the voluntary living wage rate of £8.45 an hour.
The living wage is an independently set hourly rate of pay that is calculated according to the basic costs of living. It is updated annually, and paid on a voluntary basis by employers. The living wage rate is currently set at £8.45 an hour for employees across the UK, and £9.75 an hour for staff who work in London. The higher London living wage reflects the increased living costs associated with residing in the capital.
The voluntary living wage is distinct from the statutory national living wage, which is paid to employees aged 25 and over. The national living wage rate is currently set at £7.50 an hour.
Jennifer McLaren, vice principle at West Lothian College, said: “West Lothian College is delighted to have been accredited as a living wage employer; we are committed to making sure our staff receive fair pay as it is one of the ways in which employers can demonstrate their social purpose and make a positive contribution.”
