Become a Real Living Wage employer

The Real Living Wage is a voluntary commitment made by employers to pay wages that reflect the true cost of living, based on research by the Living Wage Foundation. Unlike the National Living Wage, the Real Living Wage is higher and is updated annually to match inflation and the rising cost of essentials like housing, food, and transport.

By becoming a Real Living Wage Employer, you join a growing movement of over 15,000 organisations across the UK who are committed to fair pay. 

The benefits of paying the real living wage include:

• Attracting and retaining talent: employees who feel valued and fairly compensated are more likely to stay with your organisation, reducing recruitment costs.
• A productivity boost: fair pay leads to increased employee satisfaction, motivation, and performance.
• An enhanced reputation: demonstrating your commitment to fair wages sets your business apart and makes it more appealing to customers, clients, and partners.
• Support for the local economy: employees with more disposable income spend more in their communities, contributing to local economic growth.

Salford’s commitment to fair pay

Salford is proud to be a leading advocate for the Real Living Wage. As England’s first Living Wage City, we are committed to making fair pay the standard across our community. Over 100 employers in Salford have already signed up, covering thousands of workers and making a real positive change.

By becoming a Real Living Wage Employer, you’re not just improving the lives of your employees—you’re contributing to a fairer, more inclusive Salford.

Our campaign to increase the number of Salford-based employers paying the Real Living Wage is being supported by many employers in the private, public and voluntary, community and social enterprise sector, as well as our trade unions.

Case study

 
J Freeley Ltd – Living Wage provider based in Worsley

Becoming a living wage provider was a simple process. It’s important to us to pay fairly, and this initiative has encouraged our staff to stay with us and grow with us, knowing they will earn a good wage.

Michael Freeley, Director at J Freeley Ltd

Ready to become accredited?

Find out more from the Living Wage Foundation, including a handy guide and a series of frequently asked questions.