A scheme to further tackle the cost of living crisis is now open for Merton’s businesses and voluntary or community organisations, to help them sign up to be accredited living wage employers.

The London Living Wage Business Rates Grant is for businesses and voluntary or community organisations which pay their staff the London Living Wage. As well as meaning staff earn enough to meet their everyday needs and enjoy life, paying the London Living Wage has many proven benefits for employers too – including better staff retention and lower absence rates.

This is the latest initiative in the Council’s efforts to make Merton a living wage borough – where everyone is earning at least the London Living Wage of £13.15 per hour.

The Grant is being paid for by Merton Council’s Cost of Living Fund, which has been increased by a further £1million to a total of £3million. The Fund provides practical support and advice to people struggling to make ends meet, particularly those who are vulnerable and on a low income. The Council has been paying the living wage since 2013, and became living wage-accredited in 2023.

To see the eligibility criteria and application process visit: Apply for a London Living Wage Business Rates Grant | Merton Council.

If you’re a business in Merton, head to the council’s website to sign up to the business e-newsletter for more information on our new business rates discount scheme which will be launched in 2024. You can sign up here.