CARDIFF University’s decision to seek official accreditation as a Living Wage Employer has been praised by local MP Stephen Doughty.

The Labour MP for Cardiff South and Penarth, who is a long-term supporter of the Living Wage campaign, said: “I am delighted to hear that Cardiff University has made a commitment to seek official accreditation, and has approached the Living Wage Foundation to start this process.

“Paying the Living Wage is a massive step forward for some of the least paid but hardest working people in our economy. As a significant local employer not only in Cardiff but also Wales, Cardiff University is setting an excellent example.

“I want to see an economy where prosperity is fairly shared with good, well-paid jobs – and fairness and security in the workplace. At a time when people are facing a cost of living crisis - paying the living wage is a real boost.

“Congratulations to the Cardiff University Living Wage campaigners, and Citizens UK Cymru who have done so much to push this campaign forward, and to the University for responding."

Jo Stevens, Labour’s parliamentary candidate for Cardiff Central, where the University is based, said: “This is great news from Cardiff University, and I hope other businesses and organisations locally will follow their lead.

"Since the Lib Dem and Tory Government came into office wages have been falling behind the rising cost of living. People are working harder, for longer, for less."

Stephen recently hosted a roundtable discussion on the Living Wage at the GMB Headquarters in Cardiff, attended by Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Rachel Reeves, Shadow Welsh Secretary Owen Smith, the GMB’s Brian Strutton, as well as Welsh MPs, AMs, Councillors, Trade Unions and private sector companies:

“The event provided a timely opportunity to discuss the potential benefits of becoming a living wage employer,” he said.

“Implementing the living wage has been proven to benefit businesses, employees, and society as a whole. Adopting it helps to enhance the quality of work produced by staff; improves recruitment and retention rates; generates consumer commitment to an ethically-viewed employer; and of course helps employees to better provide for themselves and their families in difficult times.

“Despite the undoubted success of the campaign so far, including Living Wage Week, there are still far too many people who remain unable to benefit from it, which is why I remain committed to supporting it.”