Notts: Living wage plans made for council staff

Over 2,000 employees across the county would benefit, while 17.3 per cent of council staff in Bassetlaw would see their pay improved.

The proposals, to be considered by the council’s policy committee on Wednesday 18th September, would see Notts become one of the first county councils to implement the living wage.

The move would see the lowest basic wage rise to £7.45 per hour, calculated as the amount needed to meet basic living costs.

This is £1 per hour more than the current lowest-paid council employees.

The cost of implementing the living wage is estimated at £1.36 million, less than one per cent of the total wage bill at County Hall.

Council leader, Councillor Alan Rhodes, said: “Because of spiralling food, fuel and energy prices, many families in Notts are trapped in a cost of living crisis, while every day we hear about bankers and bosses pocketing astronomical bonuses and wages.”

“Paying the living wage is about being a decent, fair and morally-right employer of valued staff.”

“We are also encouraging other employers to follow our approach as it’s clear the living wage is good for business, good for the individual and good for Notts.”

“Even in times like these it’s important to do the right thing for others.”

“In the context of £154 million of cuts, we can justify spending this money to help people who have endured a difficult few years.”