Systemic change to tackle Jersey’s pay inequality is needed, the chair of a diversity organisation has said – after new data revealed that men’s real-term earnings have risen over the last two years, while women’s have fallen.

New data published by Statistics Jersey showed that between January 2022 and December 2024, real-term earnings increased by £30 for males and decreased by £20 for females.

Despite this gap, the average monthly difference between male and female real-term earnings narrowed each year – from £350 in 2022, to £340 in 2023, and £280 in 2024.

It comes after real earnings fell 2% through 2022–23, driven by double-digit inflation, and recovered by 1.3% during 2024.

By nationality, median pay in December 2024 ranged from £5,160 for South African workers to £2,650 for Kenyan workers.

Half of South African employees (51%) worked in financial and legal activities – the highest-paying sector – while two-thirds of Kenyan employees (67%) worked in hotels, restaurants and bars – the lowest-paying sector.

The Jersey Community Relations Trust, which seeks to eliminate discrimination in the island, said the figures show pose risks to the wider economy if left unaddressed.

JCRT chair Kate Wright said: “Whilst stronger nominal earnings are welcome news for Jersey, the reality beneath the headline is more nuanced.

“Since 2022, men’s real-term earnings have risen by just £30, while women’s have fallen by £20 – leaving a persistent monthly pay differential of £280 between men and women.

“In a high-cost economy, that represents more than lost income. It’s lost security and opportunity.”

The diversity campaigner added that disparities by nationality are even “starker”.

Mrs Wright added: “Distressingly, many migrant workers in essential sectors are excluded from income support, leaving them especially vulnerable in an economy they help keep running.

“If this data doesn’t act as a catalyst for systemic change, Jersey risks deepening economic division and long-term instability.

Inequality on this scale weakens productivity, drives labour shortages, increases pressure on public services and stifles growth

kate wright, chair of the jersey Community Relations Trust

“Inequality on this scale weakens productivity, drives labour shortages, increases pressure on public services and stifles growth.

“When essential workers are paid insufficiently to live a decent life, denied social mobility and support, and excluded from social safety nets, the whole economy will suffer in the longer term.”