Borough Care, a leading provider of residential care services for older people in Stockport, has this week celebrated its third birthday as a real living wage employer.

In April 2021, it became the first large residential care provider in the UK to become accredited by the Real Living Wage Foundation - a decision that was in direct response to staff feedback, and in recognition of the continued dedication shown by its 850-team members.  

The care sector is widely known to be underpaid and undervalued, with the pandemic further highlighting the industry's importance in society. Borough Care's accreditation was a pioneering move that inspired many other care providers to follow in its footsteps and become real living wage employers. 

Amie Keates, a Senior Carer at Lisburne Court in Offerton said, "Working for Borough Care, I feel truly valued and supported, especially because they pay the real living wage. Given the rise in inflation, every additional bit helps." 

To mark the occasion, its 10 care homes across Stockport celebrated with 'birthday cakes' in each home.

The surprise cakes were brought out at each home's 'Tea at Three' activity, introduced to encourage carers and residents to take a moment to sit down and enjoy a brew together at 3pm every day (Image - Borough Care)

Amanda Cumston, Manager at Bryn Haven in Brinnington said, "The real living wage makes our teams feel valued and appreciated. It enables them to pay their bills and to worry less about the cost-of-living crisis."  

The not-for-profit organisation recently announced plans to uphold its commitment to the real living wage when the new rate came into effect. With an increase of 10% to £12.00 per hour, the new rate is significantly more than the industry average hourly wage for care workers in England (currently £9.80 per hour.) 

Borough Care's CEO, Dr Mark Ward said, "Ensuring that our colleagues receive a wage that reflects the true cost of living is integral to our values as an organisation. We believe that paying the real living Wage is not only the right thing to do ethically but also makes good business sense. 

"We hope it promotes loyalty, motivation, and a sense of pride among our teams, ultimately contributing to the exceptional care we provide to our residents."

...And more celebrations! (Image - Borough Care)

Katherine Chapman, Director of the Living Wage Foundation said: "Three years ago, Borough Care became the first large residential care provider in the UK to become a real living wage accredited employer. It's great to see Borough Care renew and celebrate their commitment to the real Living Wage today. 

"Social care is one of the lowest paying sectors in the UK, with 1 in 10 jobs paying below the real living wage, so it's inspiring to see employers like Borough Care step up, do the right thing and support their staff during increasingly difficult times. 

"With the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, and over 13% of jobs in the Northwest of England paying below the real living wage, it's now more important than ever to ensure low-paid workers are paid a decent wage. 

"We hope that more social care employers, like Borough Care, will do the right thing and join the network of over 14,000 living wage employers, who are committed to ensuring their workers can always meet their everyday needs." 

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