Leeds staff to enjoy higher Living Wage

STAFF WORKING to make Leeds city centre better are to receive a pay rise.
The new Living Wage rate was launched at the Park Plaza hotel in LeedsThe new Living Wage rate was launched at the Park Plaza hotel in Leeds
The new Living Wage rate was launched at the Park Plaza hotel in Leeds

Leeds Business Improvement District has signed up to become a Living Wage employer.

Living Wage employers agree to pay a minimum rate set every year by the Living Wage Foundation based on what it considers is the amount people need to meet basic living standards.

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LeedsBid confirmed it had become a Living Wage employer as the foundation announced the rate for the next 12 months will be £8.45 per hour.

Funded by businesses, LeedsBID exists to make Leeds more attractive to visitors and raise awareness of the city.

It employs street rangers to help keep the city centre clean and ‘welcome ambassadors’ to provide information and directions to visitors.

Andrew Cooper, LeedsBID chief executive, said: “LeedsBID is delighted to be an accredited Living Wage employer.

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“Our welcome ambassadors and street rangers make a vital contribution to the Leeds visitor experience, interacting with people across the city centre and helping to raise standards.

“We are proud of all our staff and our Living Wage accreditation demonstrates our commitment to being a responsible employer.”

The Government last year introduced its National Living Wage which means everyone aged 25 and over must be paid at least £7.20 per hour by hour.

The Living Wage set by the Living Wage Foundation is higher and paid on a voluntary basis.

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There are 147 Living Wage employers in Yorkshire including the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and the Ilkley Brewery.

Ilkley Brewery director Luke Raven said: “The Living Wage has improved staff morale, and a sense of involvement in the business for all staff.

“For new roles and recruitment, we have had a higher level of applications. Our business is more attractive and well-regarded as a result.”