Emma Reynolds, MP for Wolverhampton North East and Shadow Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, has welcomed moves by New Cross hospital to ensure all employees are paid the living wage. The living wage is calculated to cover the basic cost of living, and currently stands at £7.85, higher than the national minimum wage. The pay rise for the lowest paid staff is due to occur on 1 August. In addition to this New Cross have announced they will hire 30 extra nursing staff.

Emma said “I am delighted that New Cross hospital, a major local employer, has adopted the living wage for all its staff. I would like to call on others to follow their example, and I hope this move puts pressure on other employers in the area to pay their staff enough to cover the basic cost of living.”

“This pay increase will improve the lives of 458 staff at the hospital, who will earn a living wage. I would like to congratulate the hospital for taking this step.”

“It is also fantastic news that New Cross’ new £38 million emergency department will be hiring 30 new nursing staff. This is good news for patients, especially after New Cross A&E experienced its busiest ever day on 15 June, when it treated 413 people.  It will provide more much needed local jobs.”