Thousands of workers get bump in wage packet as council tackles low pay

By Hermia Rhodes

A South London borough now has more than 360 accredited employers which pay the London Living Wage.

In the last month alone, 95 employers in Southwark have signed up to pay the London Living Wage.

Southwark became the first borough to be named a Living Wage Place in 2020, and set up a Living Wage Unit in 2022 after pledging to promote fair pay across the borough. 

Since its implementation, more than 6000 workers across the borough have benefitted from a pay rise.

The unit was nominated as finalists for the Living Wage Awards 2024. 

Southwark organisations that received awards included Borough Market in the hospitality category for engaging and supporting businesses based at the market.

Bosco Katabazi, cleaner at Borough Market: “I can afford to pay my bills and pay my bills on time. That’s because I work for company that pays the London Living Wage.”

A survey of Living Wage employers found 94 per cent believed to have benefited from their accreditation, 87 per cent said it improved their reputation, 62 per cent said it improved recruitment of employees, and 60 per cent said it improved employees’ retention. 

A grant scheme, offered to businesses with 250 employers or less until March 2026, covers the sign-up fees.

Pictured top: Bosco Katabazi, cleaner at Borough Market (Picture: Southwark council)