Even Living Wage Foundation rate is not enough, say UNISON members

This week the Living Wage Foundation brought forward a rise in its hourly rates, with a £1 increase to £10.90 across the UK and by 90p to £11.95 in London. The Foundation’s real living wage rates, which were due to be published in April 2023, were brought forward in recognition of the sharp increase in living costs over the past year. Unlike the government minimum wage (‘national living wage’) for over 23s, which is £9.50, the Foundation rate is independently calculated based on rising living costs.  Though the new figures mark a 10.1% increase in real living wage since last year, UNISON does not believe this increase is sufficient to cover the cost-of-living crisis that many workers are facing.  UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said: “Low-paid workers are crying out for help. The government must follow the Foundation’s lead and bring forward an increase to the national minimum wage without delay. Waiting until April would be foolish. “But ministers should go even further. Ensuring everyone is paid at least £15 an hour would be a lifeline for millions barely coping with eye-watering household costs. “Rather than boosting bankers’ bonuses, the government should concentrate on those feeling genuine financial pain.” UNISON member Farhiya Nur is a SEN teaching assistant in Birmingham. She said: “People are already struggling on £10 an hour. At least £15 would help a little bit. With the amount of money we get, we pay our bills but don’...
Source: UNISON meat hygiene - Category: Food Science Authors: Tags: News cost of living Living Wage Foundation Source Type: news