Recognising the key role that everyone plays
Lancashire Constabulary has been accredited as a real Living Wage Employer and 119 members of staff have now received a pay rise, with the lowest paid roles now set to earn £8.75 per hour, compared to the current National Living Wage at £7.83 and the National Minimum Wage at £7.38.
The real Living Wage is an hourly rate, independently set annually by the Living Wage Foundation. Unlike the National Living Wage, this is calculated according to the basic cost of living.
The force joins the Commissioner’s office, which is already a Living Wage Employer making Lancashire Constabulary one of the first police forces in the country to gain the accreditation from the Living Wage Foundation.
Paying the real Living Wage is part of the Commissioner’s social value policy which was brought in with support from Lancashire Constabulary to ensure that all procurement and commissioning activity maximises social, economic and environmental benefit, whilst also delivering value for money.
Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw said:
“I’m proud that we have been able to gain this accreditation for Lancashire Constabulary. As we’re all aware, the cost of living is increasing and I feel it is important to recognise and reward the efforts of every employee.
“We have dedicated staff across the organisation who all play a role in keeping the public of Lancashire safe so it’s only right they are paid a wage which reflects the real cost of living.
“This is something which the force has worked hard to implement and is the right thing to do – supporting those on lower wages is a sign of a good employer that brings the best out of its employees.
“Both myself and the Constabulary are committed to entering into agreements with businesses that pay the living wage, recognising that it can make a really positive impact on people’s lives and the organisation that they work for.”
Chief Constable Andy Rhodes, of Lancashire Constabulary, said: “I’m delighted Lancashire Constabulary has been accredited as a real Living Wage Employer.
“The real Living Wage is a voluntary scheme, unlike the statutory National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage, and is independently calculated each year by the Living Wage Foundation. The rates take into account the cost of living in the UK, including essentials like rent, council tax and childcare.
“While the majority of staff already earn above the Living Wage, a number of employees will now benefit from this accreditation. This move recognises their hard work and contribution to Lancashire Constabulary.”
UNISON Branch Secretary for Lancashire Constabulary Staff, Maureen Le Marinel said –
“When UNISON approached the employers some time ago with a request and rationale for becoming a ‘Living Wage Employer’ we recognised that it would fit in with the Police and Crime Commissioners social value policy and the Chief Constables recognition of the value he puts on his staff and their wellbeing.
“UNISON is extremely proud that the Police and Crime Commissioner and Chief Constable have worked hard towards achieving this accreditation, our members have like many other public sector workers suffered the effects of austerity and below inflation pay awards this move will go a long way in helping those members and staff.”
For more information visit www.livingwage.org.uk.
