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Human Resources

 

Real Living Wage (RLW)

Following a formal application to the Living Wage Foundation (LWF), the University of Cambridge has been accredited as a Living Wage Employer. 

Prior to being formally accredited as Living Wage employer, the University of Cambridge voluntarily paid the RLW to direct employees since 1st August 2014.

The RLW is an hourly rate of pay set independently by the Living Wage Foundation (LWF) and usually updated annually. The rate is calculated annually by the Resolution Foundation and overseen by the Living Wage Commission, and is based on the best available evidence about living standards in London and the UK (https://www.livingwage.org.uk/calculation). The RLW was previously known as the Voluntary Living Wage (VLF).

The Living Wage Foundation has more detail on the current and historical RLW rates.

For any queries on the RLW please contact the HR Reward team (hrreward@admin.cam.ac.uk)

 

Explaining UK and Real Living Wage rates

 

National Minimum Wage

National Living Wage

Real Living Wage (post full accreditation)

Legal status

Statutory

Statutory

Voluntary

Set by

Government

Government

Living Wage Foundation

Ages covered

Ages up to 20

 21 and over

18 and over

Current rate

Under 18 - £6.40

18 to 20 - £8.60

£11.44

£12.60**

Applies to

Employees,

 

Workers

Employees,

 

Workers

Employees,

 

Workers

Contractors/ sub contractors

Any exclusions

Apprentices*, Interns, contractors/ sub contractors

Apprentices*, Interns, contractors/ sub contractors

Apprentices and Interns

*During the first year of the apprenticeship, after the first year the relevant age related rate applies.

** Employers have up to six months the implement the prevailing RLW rate following the announcement by the LWF.