Glasgow City Region celebrates more than 320 new Living Wage accredited employers in two years of the Living Wage Place campaign
More than 320 employers have become Living Wage accredited since the start of the Region’s Living Wage Place campaign, uplifting the pay of 3,149 employees.
Launched in November 2024, Glasgow City Region was the first city region in Scotland to launch a regional Living Wage campaign.
The two-year anniversary follows the announcement of the new real Living Wage rate of £14.10 an hour. The independently calculated rate is based on what people need to earn to afford a decent standard of living, taking into account costs including housing, childcare, transport and heating costs.
Mike McNally, Head of economy delivery at Glasgow City Region and Co-chair of the Living Wage Action Group, said:
“As we mark the end of year two, we can be proud of the progress made across Glasgow City Region, with more than 320 employers becoming Living Wage accredited and thousands of employees benefiting from fairer pay. This is a strong foundation to build on, and as we move into Year Three, we want to keep the momentum going, working with employers and partners across the Region to make fair work and the real Living Wage an increasingly important part of our regional economy.”
Ryan Williamson, driver at McLays Foods, said:
“Being paid the real Living Wage makes a big difference to me. It means I know I can get by month to month more comfortably and still have that bit extra left over to take the kids out.”
This year also saw the launch of the Glasgow Living Wage Trail, an interactive trail through the city which encourages people to explore local businesses in Glasgow that are committed to paying the real Living Wage.
Backed by Living Wage Scotland and supported by local leaders and employers, the campaign brings together the Region’s eight councils with businesses and third-sector organisations through a dedicated Action Group of employers.
Rachel Morrison-McCormick, Projects Co-Ordinator at Living Wage Scotland said:
“Congratulations to the Glasgow City Region Action Group on achieving more than 320 new Living Wage accreditations in two years of their Living Wage Place campaign.
“It has been fantastic to see so many new employers from across the Region join us as we work to tackle in work poverty and bring more employees onto a wage that meets their everyday needs. We look forward to working with the Action Group going forward to increase this number even further.
“There are still thousands of workers trapped in in-work poverty and struggling every day to make ends meet. They’re forced to skip meals, fall behind on bills and visit foodbanks, we call on more employers to join the movement, ensuring more workers across the Glasgow City Region can earn at least the real Living Wage.”
Research has shown that Living Wage Accredited Employers have made savings on retention, recruitment and training new staff, and 94% of employers have reported having benefited from Living Wage accreditation.
They also report increased morale and motivation resulting in increased productivity.
Andrew McLay, director at McLays Foods, said:
“Becoming an accredited Living Wage employer was important for us to recognise the hard work and dedication of our staff.
“We wanted to ensure our team are paid fairly for the work they do and valued for their commitment.
“We also see Living Wage accreditation as essential to rewarding and retaining skilled, motivated employees, helping us to attract and retain employees who want to grow with the business.”
Anthony Hale, CEO of Usave, said:
“I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve come at Usave, thanks to the dedication and hard work of our people.
“Becoming a Living Wage Employer was an easy decision – it’s about valuing everyone who drives our success. This year we’ve welcomed three brilliant graduates to the team, and it’s inspiring to see the next generation grow with us.
“I want Usave to be a place where people feel supported, proud, and excited to be part of what we’re building together.”
Employers interested in becoming accredited can find out more through Living Wage Scotland by visiting: www.livingwagescotland.org or emailing: accreditation@povertyalliance.org