Council in living wage pledge

The living wage is set annually based on research by the York-based Joseph Rowntree Foundation on the amount needed to enjoy an “adequate” standard of living.

It was announced on Monday in York that the living wage will rise 20p an hour to £7.85.

The national minimum wage, which all employers are legally obliged to pay, currently stands at £8 per hour.

Councils in Sheffield and York are among those already paying the living wage alongside businesses such as Nestle.

Rotherham Council deputy leader Emma Hoddinott said: “The introduction of the living wage will support those on the lowest pay, to provide some financial relief in what is a very difficult financial climate – and also boost spending in the local economy.

“The living wage is an independent calculation that reflects the real cost of living, it rewards a fair day’s work with a fair day’s pay.”

“We hope other Rotherham employers will follow our lead and implement the living wage, it would be a fantastic thing to see happen.”