The Council and democracy Manchester - a Living Wage place

Manchester and the Living Wage

As the cost-of-living crisis deepens, more Mancunians are struggling to make ends meet, and – on the road to Covid recovery - our local economy needs strong foundations.  

Because the Living Wage is based on the cost of living rather than the Government’s minimum, it helps lift people out of poverty. It makes the difference between falling into debt, and getting by and living better. 

But paying the Living Wage isn’t just good for people – it's good for business. It marks out a responsible employer: it's a sign of local pride in our common values. 

Our commitment:

We’re committed to making Manchester a fairer city, where everyone benefits from its growth, so we pay the Living Wage. We were awarded Living Wage Employer accreditation in October 2022 when, at a Full Council meeting, the Living Wage Foundation formally gave us Living Wage Place Recognition. This marked a year's work, led by the Manchester Living Wage Action Group, who developed a three year action plan aimed at increasing the number of living wage employers across the city. Being recognised as a Living Wage City is a significant achievement for Manchester, and one we can be proud of.

Why residents should always choose a Living Wage employer 

By choosing a Living Wage employer with a fair contract and working conditions, it ensures a better quality of life for you as an employee. Living Wage employers pay a nationally set amount per hour and are aware of their commitment to providing a good work/life balance. This will mean more disposable income and a supportive working environment. Residents are encouraged to always look for the Living Wage logo when applying for jobs. Find out more about the Living Wage campaign

Image shows the Living Wage logo. A blue circle, yellow circle and orange circle are overlaid.

The Living Wage logo that businesses can display once they're accredited.