JT receives Caritas accreditation as living wage employer

Wednesday 10 July 2019

Caritas Jersey has recognised JT’s commitment as a living wage employer with the presentation of a plaque at the company’s Forum headquarters.

The living wage - an hourly rate calculated to cover the basic essentials of living, such as housing, like food and transport, and raise people out of poverty - increased to £10.55 in April.

JT has pledged to provide access to a fair wage to its employees - 400 in Jersey, 600 worldwide - across its jurisdictions.

The decision was welcomed by John Scally, Caritas Executive Director. “JT has set a great example as a large organisation which fully understands the value of its employees and is committed to working with the community to help eradicate poverty in Jersey," he said.

"The living wage is a two-way street, supporting the community and supporting better business practice. Having valued and respected employees mean that businesses benefit from lower absenteeism, lower turnover and better service from their teams."

Nicola Reeves, JT Group HR Director, added: “JT prides itself on being a responsible employer, we have supported Caritas since the Living Wage was formed and this recognition is our step to ensuring that people who live and work in Jersey have access to a wage which covers their basic needs, starting with our own people.

"We really hope that other Jersey employers across all industries recognise the worth of this campaign and more importantly the value and welfare of their employees which in turn will benefit our community as a whole.”

Over 2,500 employers throughout the UK and the Channel Islands display the Living Wage Employers Mark. 

Last year, the Government pledged to pay the living wage to all staff and contractors. JPRestaurants and its sister ceramics business Jersey Pottery, as well as Jersey Hospice Care also decided to support the campaign.