Raising standards for trade staff

EDINBURGH multiple operator, Kilderkin Group, has committed to paying its staff the ‘real living wage’ in a bid to improve the work-life balance of its employees.

As an accredited Living Wage employer, the group is paying staff across its five venues – Kilderkin, Blue Blazer, The Windsor, La Petite Mort and Bennets Bar – a minimum of £8.75 per hour. Unlike the national minimum wage (for those aged 21 to 24) and national living wage (for over 25s), which are compulsory and set at £7.38 and £7.83 per hour respectively, the real living wage is a voluntary rate which is calculated according to the cost of living and applies to all employees aged 18 and older.

Kilderkin Group owners James and Jacqueline Nisbet said the aim is to reward and retain good staff.

“We’re committed to paying the real living wage to look after our employees and find dedicated staff,” said Jacqueline.

James added: “We want our staff to have a life outside of work so that when they come in for a shift they are fresh, happy and can provide good customer service.”