Real Living Wage
Why the Real Living Wage matters in South Lanarkshire
In South Lanarkshire, we’re striving to build a fairer, stronger economy - and your business can be part of it.
The Real Living Wage helps tackle in-work poverty by putting more money into the pockets of the South Lanarkshire’s lowest-paid workers. It’s a powerful way to support your staff, your community, and your bottom line.
What is the Real Living Wage?
The Real Living Wage is:
- Independently calculated based on the actual cost of living
- Voluntarily paid by employers who want to do right by their staff
- Different from the UK Government’s National Living Wage
Current rate: £12.60 per hour
Updated annually in November
It’s calculated to reflect the real cost of essentials like housing, childcare, transport, and heating - helping workers afford a decent standard of living.
Why it matters locally
When more employers in South Lanarkshire commit to the Real Living Wage:
- Families are lifted out of in-work poverty
- Workers have more disposable income
- Local businesses benefit from increased spending
- Communities become more resilient and inclusive
Why become Living Wage accredited?
Joining the Real Living Wage movement isn’t just the right thing to do - it’s a smart business decision that brings real benefits to your organisation and your employees.
Proven business benefits
Research shows that 94% of Living Wage Accredited Employers have experienced positive outcomes, including:
- Reduced costs in recruitment, retention, and training
- Improved staff morale and motivation
- Increased productivity and employee loyalty
When employees earn a wage that reflects the true cost of living, they’re better able to support their families, plan for the future, and feel genuinely valued at work. That translates into a more committed, engaged, and resilient workforce.
What’s in it for your business?
As a Living Wage employer in South Lanarkshire, you’ll:
- Build strong partnerships with key local stakeholders
- Raise your profile as a responsible and forward-thinking employer
- Play a leading role in tackling low pay and in-work poverty
- Benefit from positive PR and marketing opportunities
- Help position South Lanarkshire as a region that champions fair work
Whether you're a small business, a social enterprise, or a large organisation, your commitment helps shape a fairer, more prosperous future for our communities.
Support for local SMEs
If you're an SME based in South Lanarkshire, you can recoup 50% of your first annual accreditation fee. For more information contact communities@southlanarkshire.gov.uk.
Learn more, read case studies, and explore FAQs on the Living Wage Scotland website.