Over 200 Scots employers have gained accreditation

Scotland’s national youth information and citizenship agency has become the latest third sector employer to become a living wage employer.

All Young Scot employees and subcontractors are now being paid at least the living wage of £7.85 an hour.

Louise Macdonald, chief executive of Young Scot, said: “Young Scot is committed to providing staff with the highest level of support – ensuring we are well equipped to achieve the best possible outcomes for young people.

“Becoming a living wage employer is part of that commitment.

“We are proud to add our name to the list of other third sector organisations and businesses in Scotland who have taken this important step in becoming living wage employers.”

The living wage is calculated according to the basic cost of living in the UK, which is set independently and updated yearly. It’s estimated 18% of the Scottish workforce earn less than the living wage.

In Scotland, the Living Wage Foundation works with the Scottish Living Wage Accreditation Initiative which is operated by the Poverty Alliance. There are currently over 200 living wage employers in Scotland, and over 1,400 in the UK.

Peter Kelly, director of the Poverty Alliance, said: “Congratulations to Young Scot on becoming an accredited living wage employer.

“With in work poverty growing in Scotland, paying the Living Wage is more important than ever.

“We are delighted that more and more organisations are recognising their role in ensuring that everyone is paid a fair days work for a fair days pay.

“We hope that more businesses will follow Young Scot’s example.”