Thanking essential workers during Living Wage Week

The Living Wage is independently caluclated  to meet the cost of living, not just the government  minimum, and employers choose to pay it on a voluntary basis. This year’s celebration is particularly focused on thanking those who have committed to paying essential staff a real Living Wage during an extemely challenging year. New rates will be announced on Monday 9th November.

We believe that people who are willing to work hard should be rewarded sufficiently and ensure that every single one of our employees is valued and appreciated at all times. This is why we are strong supporters of the Living Wage movement. In fact, we were a founding member of its Recognised Service Provider Scheme and were one of the first national contract cleaning companies to sign up to it. Our sister company, Trigion Security Services also actively supports the movement. 

The pandemic has brought challenging times for everyone, but one positive to come out of the situation is the conversations it has allowed us to have with clients around the often avoided topic of pay. The nation needs key workers and they need a Living Wage. Despite unprecedented issues for businesses across many sectors, we continue our commitment to pay our colleagues the Living Wage and champion the cause.  

It is easy to have these principles when things are going well, but it is a true show of character if you maintain these during a crisis. Upholding these values is important for those working on the frontline providing essential work during the pandemic. It is also vital for those who were furloughed, or on the new job support scheme, which has put many families in extremely difficult financial positions. 

Many of our cleaning operatives and security officers have been putting their own concerns to one side during the pandemic, to deal with the job at hand. From ensuring that client premises are safe and protected, to delivering vital services, like office deep cleans and touch-point sterilising. Now, more than ever, it is vital that these colleagues are rewarded fairly for their efforts. 

Over the years, we have seen first-hand what a difference paying the Living Wage makes. From improving relationships between employer and colleague, to ensuring a better standard of living for our people, it has been one of the most positive initiatives that we have adopted. Since joining the Living Wage scheme, we have seen lower absenteeism, increased staff retention, and higher levels of job fulfilment. This, in turn, has led to better teamwork and service provision, and greater client satisfaction. 

By becoming a Living Wage employer or a recognised service provider, you can reap the benefits of visibly being a responsible business, help the Foundation to spread awareness, and encourage other companies to join the movement. Let’s keep the momentum going and give our key workers the recognition and pay they deserve. 

To find out more visit www.livingwage.org.uk/living-wage-week