The GMB are disappointed that EMAS have chosen not to pay the Real Living Wage to our Band 2 colleagues this year – the first time it has not been paid since 2015. It is especially disappointing as the difference between Band 2 and the Real Living Wage is the lowest it has ever been – only 9 pence per hour:

• Band 2 = £12.51ph
• Real Living Wage = £12.60ph

The Real Living Wage is a voluntary paid wage calculated independently by the Living Wage Foundation to be enough to cover the essentials for a decent standard of living in the UK. This is different to the National Living/Minimum Wage set by the government (currently £12.21ph for those aged over 21).

The GMB is continuing to advocate for staff and campaign for improvements to pay and overall terms and conditions of employment.