First construction company in Jersey awarded Living Wage Accreditation

Thursday 05 October 2023

Ashbe Construction has become the first construction company in the island to receive the Jersey Living Wage Accreditation.

The local construction company currently employs 50 full-time members of staff in all sectors of the industry including historical restorations, affordable housing, commercial office space, and remedial repair work.

Local charity Caritas Jersey has been licensed by the Living Wage Foundation in the UK to manage and co-ordinate the promotion of a ‘Living Wage’ in Jersey.

The purpose of encouraging employers to sign up as Living Wage employers is to play a part in eradicating poverty in Jersey.

The Living Wage takes into account the cost of living, taxes and the value of benefits available to working people on low incomes.

Its aim is to make sure that, on average, a worker receiving the Living Wage rate, topped up by in-work benefits, earn enough to be able to live with dignity and to thrive, not just survive within our Jersey community.  

The Living Wage rate for 2023 is £12.19 per hour.

Ashbe Managing Director, Ben Cairney said: "We are extremely proud to be the first construction company in Jersey to be awarded this amazing accreditation.

"As a family run business, I believe we have a duty to ensure all our staff are able to earn a fair wage for a fair day’s work so they in turn can support their own families, especially in a time of such economic uncertainty."

The CEO of Caritas, Patrick Lynch, said: “We are really happy to be able to accredit Ashbe as a Jersey Living Wage Employer, the first construction firm. A huge amount of work has gone in over many months to ensure all their subcontractors are compliant and we applaud the determination to complete the exhaustive process. Thanks especially to Kerry Fisher for all her efforts.

"As we approach autumn and winter and with the cost of living crisis showing no sign of loosening it’s grip on the island, a Living Wage is absolutely vital.  

"The new minimum wage announced this week, is still 55 pence below the current Living Wage and that is before the 2024 Living Wage rate is announced. 

"We encourage all employers to follow Ashbe and join the Jersey Living Wage Campaign."

Pictured top: Ashbe Managing Director, Ben Cairney, and CEO of Caritas, Patrick Lynch.