Greenwich council is recognizing 124 businesses in the community for becoming Living Wage Employers during Living Wage Week. This marks a 37% increase from the previous year, with a total of 103 independent businesses and 21 chains now accredited. These businesses collectively employ 23,706 individuals within the borough.
One of the proud Living Wage Employers is Matter, a structural engineering company founded by Christina Hsieh and based in Greenwich Peninsula. Hsieh expressed her pride in being part of the initiative, stating that their approach has been successful, as evidenced by winning the award for Professional Services at the Best of Royal Greenwich Business Awards 2023.
Greenwich is collaborating with four other South London councils – Lambeth, Lewisham, Merton, and Southwark – to expand the Living Wage scheme to more businesses in the region. A council spokeswoman emphasized the importance of the Living Wage initiative in creating a more inclusive economy in Greenwich. By addressing in-work poverty and supporting businesses in building stronger and more motivated teams, the initiative aims to benefit both employees and employers.
The next goal for Greenwich is to achieve Living Wage Place status and encourage more businesses throughout the borough to participate in the program. This collective effort towards promoting fair wages and economic inclusivity demonstrates the commitment of Greenwich and its partner councils to improving the well-being of workers and businesses in the region.
One of the accredited small businesses highlighted is Emergency Exit Arts in Greenwich, showcasing the positive impact of becoming a Living Wage Employer. Through these efforts, businesses are not only recognizing the value of fair wages but also contributing to a more sustainable and equitable local economy. The growing number of accredited businesses in Greenwich reflects a shift towards prioritizing the well-being of employees and fostering a supportive work environment.
As the Living Wage initiative gains momentum in Greenwich and beyond, the hope is that more businesses will join the movement towards fair compensation and economic empowerment. By championing the Living Wage scheme, Greenwich and its partner councils are paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for workers and businesses alike.
