Welsh Labour’s Member of the Senedd for Merthyr Tydfil & Rhymney, Dawn Bowden MS, has welcomed the announcement from the Welsh Labour Government that social care staff in Wales will receive the real living wage as part of a package to support the sector.

One of Welsh Labour’s key election pledges, the implementation of the Real Living Wage is the first step in to raising wages, esteem and recognising staff for their extraordinary contribution to the coronavirus pandemic.

Currently £9.90 per hour, the Real Living Wage is independently calculated by the Resolution Foundation and overseen by the Living Wage Commission. The Real Living Wage will apply to registered workers in care homes and domiciliary care, in both adults and children’s services. The uplift will apply to Personal Assistants who provide care and support which is funded through a direct payment.

The Welsh Government will provide Welsh Local authorities and Health Boards with £43 million so they can implement the Real living Wage from April; with workers feeling the benefit in the following months.

Welcoming the announcement, Dawn Bowden MS said:

“Investing in our NHS and Social Care sector has never been more important. Welsh Labour has always recognised the tireless work of those who provide care for our loved ones. We would like to show our appreciation by securing the pay they deserve.

 “We have all witnessed the incredible work that social care workers do,  for their patients and our communities. Day in day out they look after some of our most vulnerable people with dignity and care.

“I am delighted that the Welsh Labour Government has delivered on this key manifesto promise – recognising workers who have gone above and beyond throughout the COVID-19 crisis.”