MSP Joan McAlpine is celebrating Living Wage Week – by becoming a ‘Living Wage MSP.’
The South Scotland MSP recently became an accredited Living Wage employer, and hopes that by setting an example, those organisations across Dumfries and Galloway who can afford to pay the Living Wage will be encouraged to do so.
The SNP member also welcomed the announcement today by the First Minister that the Living Wage will increase by 20p, to £8.45 an hour.
The rise of 20 pence will benefit thousands of employees at Living Wage-accredited organisations in Scotland.
Commenting, Ms McAlpine said:
“I have always endeavoured to pay my staff above the Living Wage – however becoming accredited means that I can be a Living Wage Champion, and encourage employers across the region to follow suit.
“The new Living Wage of £8.45 will be a very welcome pay rise for thousands of Scottish workers and ensures people’s basic wage continues to meet the real costs of living.
“I would encourage all businesses in Dumfries and Galloway to consider becoming Scottish Living Wage employers if they can afford to do so. For business, paying the Living Wage makes sense – it’s an investment in people and all the evidence shows it leads to increased productivity and reduced staff absence and turnover, while sending a strong signal to customers about fairness.
“With millions of workers worse off as a result of the UK Government’s welfare cuts, and low pay one of the main drivers of in-work poverty, employers can make a real difference by choosing to pay the real Living Wage.”
Employers who are interested in becoming accredited can find out more information here:
https://scottishlivingwage.org/
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