New Real Living Wage Rates Announced for 2026–2027
The London Living Wage has increased to £15.45 per hour, while the UK Real Living Wage has risen to £14.10. CAIWU calls on employers to ensure cleaners receive fair pay that reflects the rising cost of living.
New Living Wage Rates for 2026–2027
The new Real Living Wage rates for 2026–2027 have been announced, bringing increases for workers across London and the rest of the UK.
The London Living Wage has risen from £14.80 to £15.45 per hour, an increase of 65p. Meanwhile, the UK Real Living Wage has increased from £13.45 to £14.10 per hour, also representing a 65p increase.
The statutory National Living Wage remains at £12.71 per hour for workers aged 21 and over.
Unlike the statutory minimum wage, the Real Living Wage is a voluntary rate calculated according to the cost of living. Employers are not legally required to pay it unless they have made a contractual commitment to do so.
Higher Living Costs Demand Higher Wages
For cleaners and other low-paid workers, rising housing, transport, food and energy costs continue to place significant pressure on household finances.
CAIWU believes that workers deserve wages that reflect the actual cost of living, particularly in London, where everyday expenses remain exceptionally high.
Employers and the organisations benefiting from outsourced cleaning services must take responsibility for ensuring that workers receive fair wages.
Join CAIWU and Fight for Fair Pay
CAIWU continues to organise cleaners and challenge employers over low pay, unpaid wages and failures to implement agreed Living Wage increases.
If you are a cleaner earning below the London Living Wage or UK Real Living Wage, CAIWU can help you understand your rights and organise alongside your colleagues to demand better pay.
Higher living costs demand higher wages.
Join CAIWU and stand together with other cleaners fighting for fair pay, dignity and respect at work.
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