RINGWOOD Town Council has officially been accredited as a living wage employer. 

As part of this accreditation, every worker aged 18 and over will now receive a minimum hourly wage of £12, which is higher than the government's current minimum wage for those over 21, at £11.44. 

The real living wage is the only rate calculated on the actual cost of living, offering a voluntary benchmark for employers who aspire to provide their staff with a wage that truly meets everyday needs, rather than just the legal minimum.  

Since its inception in 2011, the living wage movement has successfully delivered a pay rise to over 460,000 workers across the UK and injected £3 billion into the pockets of those earning the least. 

Cllr John Haywood, chair of the council’s staffing committee, said: "Ensuring that our employees are paid a fair wage that reflects the true cost of living is not just the right thing to do—it's essential for fostering a motivated, committed workforce.  

“At Ringwood Town Council, we believe in leading by example. By becoming a living wage employer, we are making a clear statement about our values and our dedication to the wellbeing of our staff. This accreditation is a testament to our commitment to supporting the community we serve."