Welsh Water reaffirms commitment to ‘real’ living wage

WELSH WATER has reaffirmed its commitment to pay the real living wage to its staff – and throughout its supply chain – to mark Living Wage Week.

The not-for-profit water company, which has around 3,500 employees across most of Wales, Herefordshire, and parts of Deeside and Cheshire,

The company contributes an estimated £1 billion to the Welsh economy every year, and first announced it was a Living Wage Employer in 2016.

However, it became an accredited employer last year in recognition of its efforts to embed Living Wage practices in its supply chain.

It comes after the formal announcement this week by First Minister Mark Drakeford that the new Living Wage rate will be £9.50 an hour in a special online launch, which was a chance for Welsh Water, and others, to reaffirm and renew our commitment to paying the Living Wage to all our colleagues, and ensuring this principle is reflected in our supply chain as well.

While the coronavirus pandemic has put pressure on many businesses and customers in Wales, the company has worked to increase support available – and has reaffirmed its commitment to pay at least the living wage throughout its staff – significantly higher than the National Minimum Wage and the National Living Wage set by the UK Government.

The company has also been working over the last 12 months to encourage our supply chain partners to do the same.

Head of Talent and Inclusivity, Annette Mason, said: “Paying the ‘real’ Living Wage rate ensures we as a business remain competitive, are an attractive employer, attracting and retaining talented people throughout Wales. It also means that we are looking after our colleagues – ensuring everyone can earn a wage that meets the real cost of living and covers everyday needs.

“We are proud to be an accredited employer of the Living Wage. As a not-for-profit company, we want to play an active and positive role in the communities we serve – which is why we work to embed fair working practices wherever we work.

“Our colleagues across the company are our best assets and most valued ambassadors – so recognising hard work with a fair day’s pay is a fundamental part of realising our company vision to earning the trust of our customers, every day.”