UK Real Living wage increases to £12 per hour, providing relief 

Hundreds of thousands of UK employees will see a 10% pay increase from Tuesday because their employer is signed up to the voluntary Real Living Wage scheme.

Significant Wage Increase

The UK’s Real Living Wage is set to increase from £10.90 to £12 per hour for those working outside of London. This raise has been described as a “lifeline” for low-paid workers by the Living Wage Foundation, a champion of fair wages.

Employer Options

Employers in the UK have the choice to pay their employees the Real Living Wage, which exceeds the government-set minimum wage. 

This higher wage rate aims to address the financial challenges faced by many workers, providing them with a more sustainable income.

Business Concerns

While the wage increase has been welcomed by worker advocacy groups, some business organizations have expressed concerns. 

They warn that there may be limitations to what some firms can afford, particularly smaller businesses. Balancing the financial viability of businesses with fair wages remains a challenge in the evolving labor landscape.

Benefiting Workers

This wage hike is expected to bring relief to workers like Jo Mcmahon, a textile worker from Stockport. She is employed by One & All, a school uniform manufacturer that already pays its workers the higher “Real Living Wage.” 

The increase in the living wage will further support workers in making ends meet and contribute to improving their quality of life.