Bastows aims high with a commitment to fair pay

Bastows has today become one of the first organisations in the region to become an accredited Living Wage Employer.

The Living Wage is an hourly rate set independently and updated annually, based on the cost living in the UK. The Living Wage campaign has been running for ten years and has lifted over 45,000 people out of poverty.

An independent study of the business benefits of implementing a Living Wage policy in London found that more than 80% of employers believe that the Living Wage had enhanced the quality of the work of their staff, while absenteeism had fallen by approximately 25%. 66% of employers reported a significant impact on recruitment and retention within their organisation. 70% of employers felt that the Living Wage had increased consumer awareness of their organisation’s commitment to be an ethical employer.

Elvis and Andrew celebrate the news

Niki Rosenbaum, Cultural Director, says “Paying the Living Wage is a proven way to grow staff loyalty, productivity and happiness. Most importantly, it shows that a business is prepared to do the right thing by its people. We believe that every member of staff deserves a Living Wage, and hope other local businesses join us in showing a clear commitment to fair pay and respect for their employees.”

Rhys Moore, Director of the Living Wage Foundation said “The benefits the Living Wage brings to staff and business are clear. I welcome the leadership shown by Bastows on this important issue.”

Bastows have been accredited by the Living Wage Foundation for paying all employees a minimum of the London Living Wage rate of £8.80 per hour.

You can find out more about the Living Wage by visiting www.livingwage.org.uk

The Living Wage is backed by the Government, Her Majesty’s Opposition, the Mayor of London and the Greater London Assembly.

PRESS CONTACTS

Contact Niki Rosenbaum for further information at niki@bastows.co.uk, via Twitter @BastowsFamily or by phone on 020 7259 9513