The city's local Living Wage Campaign, which started 11 years ago, has just signed its 900th member.
Run by Brighton Chamber and supported by the council and Brighton & Hove Unison, it has resulted in over 4,500 salaries elevated across the city.
HIT Training is the 900th business to sign up. Jill Whittaker, Managing Director of HIT Training said: “As a leading apprenticeship provider, we recognise the importance of embracing diversity, equality and inclusion in the working population and by paying all our employees the real Living Wage, we aim to make a difference to the lives of all individuals in sustainable careers and encourage our partners to do the same."
Creating shared prosperity
Jill added: “We are also one of the first training providers to become an Employee Ownership Trust meaning all our staff automatically become co-owners of our business and actively participate in our success further demonstrating our commitment to building a stronger and brighter future for all.”
Councillor Alan Robins, chair of the council’s Culture, Heritage, Sport, Tourism & Economic Development Committee, said: “It’s fantastic to see so many of the city’s businesses supporting the local Living Wage campaign, especially during a time of severe financial pressures for business owners and their staff.
“Through their commitment, these businesses are not only helping their employees with day to day living costs but also helping to create a flourishing and inclusive economy in Brighton & Hove.”
Diana Leach from Brighton & Hove Unison said: “Brighton & Hove Unison has been supporting this worthy campaign for many years and we are proud of how it has raised hourly rates and working conditions in the city.”
A force for good
Sarah Springford, CEO of Brighton Chamber, highlighted the ways the campaign has grown: “You don’t have to make a big song and dance to get stuff done. Sometimes working collaboratively, getting support from others to spread the word, and working creatively with what you have can achieve great results.
“The best thing about running this campaign has been to see the community of responsible employers growing and becoming a force for good in the city. I am proud that Brighton Chamber, and the business community, has played a part in making the Living Wage the acceptable minimum norm for many businesses here.”
Watch the latest video from the Brighton & Hove Living Wage Campaign:
Find more information, including how to sign up to the Brighton & Hove Living Wage Campaign.
