Making Space has increased employees’ pay packets by 10% as part of its commitment to give workers the real living wage.
The adult health and social care charity, which employs 1,000-plus people nationally, has awarded salary increases of more than double the national average, with a £1,950 annual rise for full-time staff.
Introduced in April, the new pay deal means employees are now earning a minimum hourly rate of £10.90. Workers whose wages already equals or exceeds £10.90 per hour will also enjoy a bigger annual income, with four-fifths (80%) of all staff awarded increases of 8.6% to 10.1%.
Making Space is investing £1.2 million in implementing the increases, which are in line with its aim to “attract, develop and support exceptional people to deliver passionate and skilled care”.
CEO Rachel Peacock said: “Frontline social care workers do one of the most important jobs in society, that is supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.
“The efforts of everyone at Making Space are nothing short of incredible and my colleagues have my absolute admiration. We truly value the hard work, commitment and sacrifice of the dedicated people who provide the best quality care and support to the people that use our services.”
This is the second year the Warrington-headquartered charity has committed to giving its workforce the real living wage. Last year, it implemented £1,700 wage increases for staff, meaning frontline workers are now £3,650 a year better off than they were in 2021.
Peacock added: “Despite the ongoing challenges of their roles, our Making Space colleagues continue to provide outstanding care and support at our services all over the UK. They are professional and skilled people who deserve to be paid at a level that takes account of the real cost of living, which is why we are committed to paying the real living wage.
“But while we will continue to do everything we can to attract and train the best people to deliver the highest level of support, we also need the Government to do more to reform the health and social care sector.”
The charity’s employees also have access to an employee benefits package, which includes savings on gym memberships and holiday discounts, a cycle-to-work scheme, private mental health support and instant access to 30% of earned pay, in addition to a contributory pension scheme.
