The Abbeyfield Society has become the first UK-Wide elderly care provider to gain the Living Wage Employer Mark, a fantastic step forwards for social care.
Natasha Singarayer, Chief Executive of the Abbeyfield Society said:
"Paying fairly brings massive rewards for employers. Our workers tell us that it makes them feel valued, and because of that, they are prepared to go that extra mile for our residents. Our retention rates are much higher than the care sector norm and this is making a real difference to people's lives.
"This is a big deal for Abbeyfield but is also an important marker for the care sector overall. Caring for the over 65's should be a role that people aspire to and the Living Wage is a key part of that. We are proud to stand up and be counted as a Living Wage employer and urge all the other care employers in this region to sign up today."
Living Wage Foundation Director, Rhys Moore said:
"Abbeyfield's accreditation as a Living Wage employer is a huge step for the care sector. We hope that the leadership they have shown will encourage others in this industry to consider how they support low-paid employees.
"The best employers are voluntarily signing up to pay the Living Wage now. The Living Wage is a robust calculation that reflects the real cost of living, rewarding a hard day's work with a fair day's pay."
A commitment to the Living Wage is part of the Citizens UK Charter of Good Practice for Care Providers and Commissioners, which Abbeyfield was one of the first national providers to sign up to. The Charter spells out a set of standards that would enable quality care for the recipient and dignity for the worker.