Committed to ‘living wage’

Howarths People and Safety Management has been accredited as one of the first Living Wage Employers in the region after ensuring staff wages match the cost of living in the UK.

The living wage is an hourly rate set by the independent Living Wage Foundation and updated annually.

The campaign, which offers separate rates for London and the rest of the UK, has been running for 10 years and has lifted more than 45,000 out of poverty.

Howarths managing director Gavin Howarth said: “Becoming a Living Wage employer is something that we are very proud of, and is in line with our core values and vision of being a responsible and sustainable employer in the region.”

Studies carried out by the Living Wage Foundation have revealed that more than 80 per cent of employers believe the living wage has enhanced the quality of the work of their staff, while 70 per cent felt it had raised awareness of their company’s commitment to being an ethical employer.

Rhys Moore, director of the foundation, said: “The benefits the living wage brings to staff and businesses are clear.

“I welcome the leadership shown by Howarths on this important issue.”