By Pam McClounie

Last updated at 11:31, Monday, 12 November 2012

Some of the lowest paid workers at Carlisle City Council will have their earnings increased to ensure no one is paid less than the living wage.

Les Tickner

The council is setting aside £30,000 in its draft budget to pay for an increase to a minimum hourly rate of £7.45 for its lowest paid members of staff.

It is estimated that 19 employees will benefit from the increase and any new staff employed from April next year will also receive the increased hourly rate.

The money has been set aside in the council’s draft budget to pay for the increase.

Councillor Les Tickner, who has responsibility for finance, governance and resources, said: “The implementation of the living wage for our staff is an important part of the council’s budget proposals.

“A recent survey of councils where the living wage has been implemented showed that it has provided an important new stimulus to the local economy as well as being of huge benefit to the lowest paid members of staff.”

The budget papers for the 2013/2014 city council finances will be discussed at the executive meeting next Monday. This will be the start of the formal budget process which will also include consultation with trade unions, the council’s overview and scrutiny committees and other parties.

First published at 11:14, Monday, 12 November 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk