Passion4Social are a creative agency with a difference. As a Social Enterprise, they strive to offer outstanding marketing solutions while keeping people at the heart of what they do. Their mission is to create sustainable employment opportunities for people with disabilities and long-term health conditions.
Their flexible business model puts a focus on well-being and quality of life, allowing their employees to reach their full potential in a nurturing and supportive environment. Providing flexibility and the relevant accessible tools alongside understanding and empathy has enabled Passion4Social to cultivate a workplace that encourages and fosters confidence, creativity and growth.
Paying a real Living Wage has been important to Passion4Social since their inception. The real Living Wage is independently calculated and based on what people need to live on. Being able to earn enough to cover basic needs contributes to quality of life, reduces money worries and ultimately benefits employers who will see increased loyalty and motivation.
“The real Living Wage is good for team morale, productivity and motivation. It gives our employees access to more than just the basics and allows them to live more comfortably.” Pav Stewart, Operations Manager
The Process
It was always the intention of Passion4Social to pay a real Living Wage but like many other new businesses they had to establish themselves and reach financial sustainability to ensure they were as robust as possible. After 2 years of hard work to reach their financial goals, they moved all staff to a real Living Wage.
“We had to work hard but it was worth it. Our team feels valued and recognised for their contributions. We hope to keep increasing salaries and help provide a better life for all of our team.” Pav Stewart
Pav was delighted that the accreditation process was so straightforward and consisted of completing a comprehensible online form which was then followed up with a phone call from a member of the Living Wage Scotland team. This is standard practice and allows employers to ask questions and go over any points they feel unsure of.
The Benefits
At a time when there is increased anxiety and uncertainty for businesses and their employees, our network of accredited Living Wage employers feel they have a moral duty to ensure their people are well looked after. This can help the resilience of the business and gives the individuals who work there, security.
“The pandemic has brought reduced hours and job losses to our society. Many people are having to cope with a reduced income. Paying the real Living Wage gives our team peace of mind and a sense of job security in times like these.” Pav Stewart
Passion4Social believe that paying the real Living Wage and ensuring that staff feel more secure and valued, results in increased productivity and motivation. Recognising the value of staff and demonstrating a commitment to them is vital, now more than ever, and the benefits are paid back to the employer when morale is high. The goodwill and loyalty that is promoted when people feel respected and recognised is invaluable. During these challenging times it is crucial to support people and ensure that their hard work and commitment is acknowledged.
“What lovely news! I really appreciate the raise and can’t thank you enough for recognizing the work I do.” Passion4Social Employee
Like many other employers, Passion4Social say paying a real Living Wage is the right thing to do and is in line with their company values. They want to demonstrate their investment in their people and feel paying a real Living Wage is the least they can do, and think it is only fair to reward their employees and give them a more comfortable life.
“We have an amazing team of people that really do deserve to be rewarded for their hard work. It is the minimum that every employer should give their employees and we believe it is the first step in rewarding employees for their hard work and efforts – it is fair pay.” Thiago Carmo, Managing Director