Christina McKelvie MSP encourages employers during Living Wage week 2017

 

The Scottish Living wage has risen to £8.75 as employers celebrate Living Wage week 2017. Rising from £8.45, the new living wage is set to keep wages in line with inflation, offering benefits to both employers and staff.  

Evidence from the Living Wage Foundation and the Poverty Alliance has shown that businesses offering a living wage show increased staff retention and staff satisfaction.

Living wage employer and MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, Christina McKelvie, stated the living wage was a ‘moral obligation’.

Commenting on Living Wage Week, the SNP MSP added:

“For those who can afford to do so, paying the living wage is a moral obligation, benefitting both staff and employers.

“It has been shown that paying the living wage can increase staff retention, staff satisfaction and reduce absenteeism and staff turnover.

“I’m delighted to note that South Lanarkshire is fully playing its part with over 40 employers signed up – but I know we can do more.

“Signing up is quick, easy and affordable and I would encourage all businesses to consider becoming a living wage employer.  

Katherine Chapman, Director of the Living Wage Foundation said:

“Year-on-year, we see organisations and businesses across the UK embracing the real Living Wage as they recognise that a fair day’s pay is not only the right thing so to but can improve the quality of staff’s work, reduce absenteeism and increase motivation and retention.”

“Today’s increase acknowledges that the cost of living continues to rise for workers everywhere and the leadership shown by businesses who welcome this is a cause for celebration during Living Wage Week, sending a positive message to the business community to show what others can achieve.”