Higher Education minister visits University for Living Wage Week
Graeme Dey MSP, Minister for Higher and Further Education, visited the Scholar Hotel at University of Edinburgh to hear from staff about the benefits of a living wage.
The Real Living Wage is the only UK wage rate based on the actual cost of living and is different from the government's National Living Wage (£11.44ph), which is the legal minimum employers must pay for over-21s.
The University has paid the Real Living Wage rate, currently 12.60ph, since 2012 and accreditation was confirmed in November 2017.
Staff shared their experiences of previously working on a minimum wage salary and the noticeable benefit to being employed on the Real Living Wage.
Fair Work, including Fair Pay, supports stronger productivity, economic growth and greater wellbeing; it is good for business, good for workers and good for our economy.
“The staff and management at The Scholar Hotel have demonstrated the benefits that Fair Work practices can bring to both employers and employees.
“I was particularly struck from my conversations with staff by how positively they view the Fair Work approach. This is why Scottish Government continues to be a proud supporter of the Real Living Wage.
Team members of the Accommodation, Catering and Events department spoke of the University's support for Modern Apprenticeships, and for the Career Ready mentoring programme,, which offers a paid internship to young people to help bridge the gap between school and the workplace.
This year has seen a remarkable increase in mentor participation from 5 to 43.
The University has been a long-time participant of the Edinburgh Living Wage Action Group which includes members of the City of Edinburgh Council, Chamber of Commerce, Living Wage Scotland and key private and third sector living wage employers in Edinburgh.
The University of Edinburgh's commitment to being a Real Living Wage employer reflects our dedication to fostering dignity, equality, and stability within our workforce. By ensuring that all employees are fairly compensated, the University not only strengthens job satisfaction and retention but also enhances social wellbeing across our community.
Related links
Accommodation, Catering and Events at The University of Edinburgh