CGA proud to be Accredited Living Wage Employer
We are very proud to announce our role as an Accredited Living Wage Employer. As part of our commitment to paying people a fair and reasonable wage, we are playing a key role in an initiative led by Preston City Council to encourage more local businesses to raise their own rates of pay to at least £9.30 per hour.
Chief Executive Rob Wakefield said, “As a community-based housing association with 80% of our colleagues living in the Preston area, it is really important to us to pay the Living Wage. This ensures our colleagues earn enough to live on and are fairly rewarded for the work they do. It also aligns well with our ethos of ‘giving something back’ to the local economy.”
This sentiment was backed up by Claire Smith, Head of Culture and Engagement, who added, “We believe in valuing and recognising the hard work of our colleagues who deliver great services in our communities. As an organisation driven by strong values and ethics, treating people fairly and paying them properly is what we are all about.”
In addition to the benefits to the individual, organisations paying the Living Wage also see improvements, including increased productivity and motivation. These benefits were highlighted by Lindsey Wharrie, People Services Manager, who said, “Our entry level roles all pay the Real Living Wage rate, resulting in a high volume of applications to these vacancies when advertised. We are passionate about recruiting, developing and retaining our valued colleagues, and delighted that this accreditation forms part of a package helping us to retain our talent.”
The very real changes this commitment has made to individuals can be best highlighted by the positive feedback from colleagues. One of our apprentices said: “Being on the Living Wage means I don’t have to worry as much about money. It’s amazing how much of a difference this has made to my overall wellbeing.” Such positive sentiment was echoed by another who added, “It’s had a positive impact on my life, making me feel a valued member at Gateway and shows me how they appreciate all the hard work I put in.”
To learn more about the Preston Living Wage scheme, go to https://www.preston.gov.uk/PrestonRealWage