SNP MSP Ben Macpherson has urged businesses in Edinburgh Northern and Leith to sign up to the Scottish Living Wage, as part of Living Wage Week (5th-10thNov).
The Scottish Living Wage is independently calculated, based on the cost of living – with the real Living Wage rising by 25p this year to £9, higher than the minimum wage of £7.83 for workers over the age of 25.
There are currently 275 accredited Living Wage employers in Edinburgh, and 78 in Edinburgh Northern and Leith.
Ben Macpherson MSP has written to employers in Edinburgh Northern and Leith, encouraging them to explore the benefits of accreditation. Research shows that paying the real Living Wage improves staff morale and retention, as well as productivity and company reputation in the community.
Ben Macpherson MSP said: “The real Living Wage can make a huge difference to both workers and employers, supporting strong economic growth and vibrant communities.
“For business, paying the Living Wage makes sense – it’s an investment in people, and all the evidence shows that it leads to increased productivity and better staff retention.
“It is very disappointing that the UK government did not use last week’s Budget to raise the National Living Wage, extend it to all workers and end discrimination against young people. With low pay one of the main drivers of in-work poverty, it is vital that employers who can pay the real Living Wage, do so.
“I appreciate that there are multiple challenges and various costs to running a successful business. However, I would strongly encourage employers in Edinburgh Northern and Leith to to look into the benefits of becoming an accredited Living Wage employer, as we continue to strengthen inclusive, sustainable economic growth in Scotland.”
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