Landmark pay increase for carers given the green light

Landmark pay increase for carers given the green light

Cllr Cunliffe

A new era of financial support for Wigan Borough’s unsung heroes has been confirmed.

All staff working in adult social care will receive the Real Living Wage in a ‘landmark’ move announced by town hall bosses.

Unveiled as part of Wigan Council’s 2023/24 budget, the plans were confirmed following a meeting of cabinet members on Thursday.

Deputy Leader of Wigan Council, Councillor Keith Cunliffe, who has previously referred to social care staff and carers as the ‘unsung heroes’ of the borough, said the move would have a massive impact.

He added: “We are delighted to confirm these plans that will see our valued carers paid the Real Living Wage as a minimum from this year onwards.

“We hope it will help us to retain and attract new people into a career in adult social care, ensuring we continue to provide essential and high-quality care to those who need help and support.”

The Real Living Wage is based on the cost of living and is independently calculated each year by the Living Wage Foundation.

The new rate for the UK is set to increase in 2023 to £10.90 per hour - a 14.7 per cent increase on the April 2022 national living wage.

To help implement the rate for adult care staff across Wigan Borough, the council will work with local commissioned providers to provide the extra funds needed.

This includes an increase in funding for people who arrange their own care through a Direct Payment.

Alongside an increase to commissioned services, non-commissioned services such as privately operated Care Homes, will also benefit from additional funding if they commit to paying the Real Living Wage.

Coun Cunliffe, who is cabinet portfolio holder for adult social care, added: “With more than 165,000 vacancies nationally in social care and as the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact on household bills, we recognise the importance of investing in the pay of our workforce.

“This investment has been made possible through the different approach we take here in Wigan Borough, which includes us establishing a social care academy through our partnership working with Edge Hill University, Wigan and Leigh College and our local NHS services.”