New data calculated by the Smith Institute for the Living Wage Foundation has revealed that 1.2 million public sector workers earn below the voluntary living wage, which is currently set at £9 across the UK and £10.55 in London.
Polling conducted by Survation found that 64.3% of people agree that workers employed on public money through government contracts should be paid the voluntary living wage, which is calculated based on the cost of living.
According to the Living Wage Foundation, 75% of accredited living wage employers have seen an increase in staff motivation and retention.
Lola McEvoy, from the Living Wage Foundation, said: “It’s simply wrong that our teaching assistants, cleaners, carers and catering staff – paid on public money - are struggling to keep their heads above water on wages that don’t meet basic living costs. The public support this, politicians support this, the Treasury would benefit from this – there’s no reason not to do it. It’s time for our public institutions to lead by example and join nearly 5,000 employers who pay the real living wage.”
