East Ayrshire Council is now a ‘real Living Wage’ employer after achieving accreditation.

As a result, 350 third-party contracted council employees will receive a real Living Wage of £9.30 per hour.

The increase of 58p an hour will see employees aged 25 and over earn on average £1131 a year more than on the £8.72 an hour national Living Wage.

The difference between the national Living Wage and the real Living Wage is even more marked for younger workers. Those aged 18 and over can earn an average of £5558 more each year.

Jack Evans, Living Wage Scotland manager said: “Congratulations to EAC on becoming an accredited Living Wage Employer. This accreditation is a signal of their commitment to tackle low pay and in-work poverty, which is more important now than ever.

“Local authorities are key employers in their local area. They are not only large employers with significant spending power, but also act as an example to other employers. We hope, after this announcement, more are encouraged to become accredited and ensure that both directly employed and contracted staff are paid the real Living Wage.”

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