Barclays Drives Rise in Cleaners Standard of Living

Barclays and its cleaning contractors - Mitie Cleaning & Support Services, Lancaster and Aim Hygiene, managed by Atkins Asset Management - are rolling out a ëfair wageí package to the cleaners who work across Barclays 2000-strong UK branch network.

The new pay and benefits package includes a minimum pay threshold, pension contributions, sick pay, bonuses, an increased holiday entitlement and training to an industry recognised standard. The move directly involves over 2,400 cleaners.

All cleaners working in Barclays branches across the country will earn a guaranteed minimum of 6.05 per hour - 1 above current minimum wage. They will also receive a 15p per hour bonus each month dependant on the quality of their work and their attendance record.

ìThese are industry-leading changes that we believe will have an impact on the quality of life for all the cleaners working within our branch network and mean a better branch experience for our customers and staff,î said Jon Couret, Head of Facilities Management at Barclays.

ìAlthough our direct contract is with our contractors, who in turn directly employ and pay the cleaners, we recognise that ultimately it is ourselves who are responsible for improving their standard of living.î

Sean Haley, Managing Director of Atkins Asset Management, added:

ìThis is good news for the cleaners, Barclays and its customers. This fair wage programme will have a huge positive impact on thousands of lower paid workers across the UK.î

Atkins Asset Management manages Barclays suppliers and will oversee the rollout of the package. It will be working closely with Barclays cleaning suppliers Mitie, Lancaster and Aim Hygiene, which work in different regions of the UK.