Pay rise for government staff on living wage

Finance Secretary John Swinney has announced a pay increase for government staff on the living wage – and urged other employers to follow suit.

The Scottish Government’s lowest-paid workers will now receive £7.45 per hour in line with a recommended rise in the living wage. Mr Swinney also urged bosses in the private, public and voluntary sectors to commit to paying all staff at least the new living wage.

Mr Swinney said: “The Scottish Government is committed to the Scottish living wage and we fully support the principles of the Living Wage Campaign, which encourages all employers to reward their staff fairly.

“That is why the commitment to pay the living wage is part of the Scottish Government’s public sector pay policy for the third year running.

“The living wage is a positive step that all employers can take to help boost consumer confidence, strengthen economic recovery, while helping to provide certainty for individuals and families who are already dealing with pressures on family budgets.”

Peter Kelly, chair of the Scottish Living Wage Campaign, praised the Government’s stance. He said: “Today’s announcement will ensure that some of the lowest paid workers in the public sector will receive a wage increase that will provide real help in these difficult times.

“We look forward to working with the Scottish Government to ensure that more employees across Scotland can get the benefit of the living wage.”