Hebden Royd Town Council has become one of the first organisations in the region to become an accredited Living Wage Employer.
The Living Wage is an hourly rate set independently and updated annually, based on the cost living in the UK. The Living Wage campaign has been running for ten years and has lifted over 45,000 people out of poverty.
An independent study of the business benefits of implementing a Living Wage policy in London found that more than 80% of employers believe that the Living Wage had enhanced the quality of the work of their staff, while absenteeism had fallen by approximately 25%. 66% of employers reported a significant impact on recruitment and retention within their organisation. 70% of employers felt that the Living Wage had increased consumer awareness of their organisation's commitment to be an ethical employer.
Mayor of Hebden Royd Town Council, Cllr Karl Boggis said "The implementation of a living wage was a simple decision. Hebden Royd Town Council values each and every one of its staff and is proud to be leading the area in the provision of a living wage. "
Rhys Moore Director of the Living Wage Foundation said "The benefits the Living Wage brings to staff and business are clear. I welcome the leadership shown by Hebden Royd Town Council on this important issue."
To find out more about becoming an accredited Living Wage Employer visit www.livingwage.org.uk
Added: Tuesday, 14 January 2014