#STUC16 STUC Congress slammed the UK Government’s “so-called” national living wage and pledged to press for a real Living Wage for all workers, including those under 25.
UNISON’s Helen Duddy, supporting the motion slammed the current situation which means that those aged 16-25, who are doing the exact same job and hours as their fellow co-workers, can be paid less by as much as £3.50 per hour.
“How can this be acceptable?” asked Helen.
She spoke about her granddaughter, aged 20, who works part-time in a restaurant whilst studying at university.
“She has worked there for about two years, she helps train new staff. This occasionally can lead her to be training a person on a higher salary due to the age difference.
“She is on £5.30 per hour. A new start over 25 would be on £7.20 an hour. At the other side of the scale we have 16 year olds doing the same job as the over 25 and receiving £3.80 per hour.
“Again I ask, why is this acceptable?”
“As a result, there is a real risk that young workers will be left behind on pay with the possibility of young people being exploited.”