Published on 10 February 2022
The University of Sunderland is set to implement the Real Living Wage for its UK-based staff.
The University is in the process of applying to become an accredited Living Wage Foundation Employer, which means that from April 1st this year the Real Living Wage will come into force for employees.
This will increase the salary of more than 100 of the institution’s lowest paid staff.
The University will also be working with its contractors who provide key services, to ensure they have a plan to pay the Real Living Wage to their staff.
The UK Real Living Wage is an independently calculated hourly rate based on a realistic wage that allows individuals and their families to meet their everyday needs.
The RLW is currently £9.90 per hour (outside London) and £11.05 per hour (London). This compares with the current statutory national living wage of £8.91 per hour.
The University recognises that implementing the Real Living Wage is not only the right thing to do for its staff, it also aligns to its values and acknowledges the commitment and dedication of all our employees in providing excellent support to students.
As one of Sunderland’s largest employers, it is important that the University supports the city-wide campaign to support local wealth creation by becoming a ‘Real Living Wage’ city.
And as an employer in London, where the cost of living leads to some of the highest poverty levels in the country, it is important the University continues to support the campaign.