Supporting fair pay in our city
Why we built this directory
The goal is simple: support Preston’s Living Wage City status and make it easier for everyone to support fair pay. The directory serves four key purposes:
Raise awareness – Educate the public about the difference between the government minimum and the voluntary Real Living Wage.
Encourage accreditation – Showcase the growing number of local businesses taking the pledge, inspiring others to follow suit.
Help job seekers – Allow candidates to quickly identify potential employers who value their staff with fair compensation.
Support ethical procurement – Enable buyers and consumers to choose services from accredited employers, driving demand for responsible business practices.
About the Real Living Wage
The Real Living Wage is an hourly rate independently calculated based on the actual cost of living in the UK, currently standing at £13.45 across the UK and £14.80 in London. Unlike the government minimum, it reflects what people actually need to live with dignity. In Preston alone, accredited employers have already uplifted over 4,200 workers, benefiting more than 15,600 employees across the city.
Support for local businesses
If you run a micro, small, or medium-sized enterprise headquartered in the Preston District, there has never been a better time to join the movement. Preston City Council is actively backing fair pay with a grant scheme that covers the full cost of the Living Wage Foundation accreditation fee for first-time applicants. This removes the financial barrier to entry, allowing businesses to focus on the commitment to their staff.
Find out more about becoming accredited.
Since the launch of the “Preston Living Wage City” campaign in November 2024, over 40 local businesses have already secured accreditation. We encourage all eligible employers to visit the Preston City Council website to learn more about the grant scheme and start their application journey.
Our part in this
As a digital agency, we believe in using our web design and development skills to build tools that strengthen our community, so this project reflects our core values.
The Preston Living Wage Directory is also a testament to our ability to create functional, impactful digital solutions that serve a greater purpose. We are proud to be part of a city that prioritises people over profit.
We invite you to explore the directory, share it with your network, and join us in making Preston a fairer place to work and live.
