Updated October 2025
Real Living Wage Increases
The Living Wage Foundation has announced the real Living Wage rates for 2025–2026!
With the London Living Wage rising from £13.85 to £14.80, and the UK rate for the rest of the country increasing from £12.60 to £13.45.
Despite easing inflation, the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact workers across Britain. According to the Office for National Statistics, millions of UK workers continue to earn below the Real Living Wage.
This means that unfortunately many low-paid workers continue to struggle with rent, food, and transport costs.
A 2025 report by the Living Wage Foundation found that 42% of employees earning below the real Living Wage used food banks in the past year. Whilst almost six in ten said they had skipped meals, reduced heating, or fallen behind on household bills.
These figures show why the real Living Wage remains such a vital safeguard for millions of working people across the UK.
The Real Living Wage Explained
The Real Living Wage is the only UK wage rate based on the true cost of living. It is independently calculated each year to reflect what people need for a decent standard of life. This includes everyday costs such as rent, food, transport, and household bills.
Unlike government-set rates, the Real Living Wage is paid voluntarily by employers who believe in fair and responsible pay. They choose to go further because they know that financial security supports happier, more productive teams.
For 2025–26, the Real Living Wage rates are £13.45 across the UK and £14.80 in London. The rate applies to all workers aged 18 and over, ensuring young adults are not left behind. A London weighting helps account for the higher cost of living in the capital.
Today, more than 16,000 accredited employers have committed to paying the Real Living Wage. Together, they’re helping workers live with greater stability, confidence, and dignity, not just get by.
The movement began in East London over twenty years ago. Back then, many low-paid workers held multiple jobs yet still struggled to make ends meet. They wanted fair pay and enough time for family and community life.
Since its launch in 2001, the campaign has delivered over £4.2 billion in extra wages to low-paid workers. It continues to challenge in-work poverty and promote a fairer future for everyone.
"The greatest asset of a company is it's people."
– Jorge Paulo Lemann (Co-founder, Banco Garantia)
What’s Good for People is Good for Business
The Real Living Wage makes business sense. It improves retention, productivity, and employee wellbeing. Fair pay helps create workplaces where people thrive and businesses grow.
A 2025 survey by the Living Wage Foundation found that 94% of accredited employers reported business benefits from paying the Real Living Wage. Most said it improved staff motivation, retention, and reputation, while many also saw stronger recruitment and customer trust.
Across the UK, accredited employers report higher motivation and stronger loyalty. Teams feel more valued and take greater pride in their work. For many, paying the Real Living Wage is an investment in people and in long-term success.
It builds a culture of respect, stability, and shared purpose that benefits everyone.
Our Ongoing Commitment
Each year, Signature takes part in Living Wage Week to celebrate new rates.
We share updates, graphics, and stories to promote fair pay and awareness.
Signature is proud to be a Recognised Service Provider with the Living Wage Foundation, supporting fair pay across the services we deliver.
We believe fair pay builds confidence, stability, and stronger communities.
If your organisation wants to make the same commitment, you can become a Living Wage Employer today.
