The Living Wage for Dorset campaign is concerned at the growing number of people who are working for little more than the National Minimum Wage. This has an effect on both the county’s economy and individual households.
Contrary to some claims, low pay doesn’t create employment, but only reduces the wages of those in work who have to compete with workers on low wages. It also does little to cut costs because taxpayers are effectively subsidising poor employers through tax credits and benefits for their workers. But most importantly, low pay isn’t fair – after a decent day’s work individuals should have enough money on which to live.
The Living Wage for Dorset campaign has therefore been created to persuade more local employers to pay a Living Wage of £7.45 per hour.
An independent study of the business benefits of implementing a Living Wage policy 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%.Two thirds of employers also 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.
The Living Wage campaign enjoys cross party support, with public backing from both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition, as well as from religious organisations, trade unions and employers.
Paying the Living Wage is good for business, good for the individual and good for society.
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