A home care provider based in South Somerset has announced a pay rise for its employees.
As the cost of living continues to take its toll on thousands across the country, Bluebird Care South Somerset has announced it will be increasing employees’ wages by 8.5% to reflect this, and the team’s hard work.
The increase means the care provider’s 26 carers will now earn between £12 – £13 which is almost 20% above the average hourly rate for carers in England, Chard and Ilminster News said.
Anyone working on bank holidays will receive an ‘enhanced rate’ of £18.50. Overnight carers are set to see £95 per shift, and £130 for bank holiday sleep-ins.
The company will also be payign 65p per mile, and those traveling more than 10 miles per will be offered an additional £5 per journey.
Care assistant, Jessica Bag, said: “As a parent, this pay rise will be a huge help managing the increased costs of childcare and activities for the kids.
“The additional support to cover fuel costs is also hugely valuable. It is really encouraging to know that we are supported to deliver our best at work and that our hard work is recognised and rewarded.”
Ross Perkins, director at Bluebird Care South Somerset, said: “The cost-of-living crisis has affected us all. I am therefore incredibly proud that Bluebird Care is able to offer an above-inflation pay rise this year.
“Our hard-working Care Staff fully deserve this 8.5 per cent pay rise in recognition of the professionalism, compassion, and dedication that they demonstrate every day.”
