11/11/2025
A Care Worker's Guide to Fair Pay
Have You Seen Job Adverts Like These?
“Hourly rate UP TO £13.75" – This is the highest rate they pay, not what you'll actually earn. What's the standard starting rate? They're not telling you.
"£12.50 per hour including holiday pay" – This is called "rolled-up" holiday pay. It sounds good, but it means you don't get paid extra when you take your holidays. You're just getting your holiday pay spread across the year.
"£13 per hour including travel time" – Your pay includes driving between clients. So your actual working time is being paid at a much lower rate than advertised.
If you've seen these tactics, you're not alone. Over 60% of care worker jobs advertised in the UK pay below the Real Living Wage The Bureau Investigates, which suggests widespread use of misleading pay practices.
What is the Real Living Wage?
The Real Living Wage is the only UK wage rate based on what it actually costs to live. It's calculated independently and is higher than the government's National Living Wage.
Here's the crucial difference: when an employer commits to being a Real Living Wage employer, they must pay at least this rate for every hour you work. No rolled-up holiday pay. No travel time included. No tricks. Just honest, transparent pay.
Why This Matters for Care Workers
Care work is demanding, skilled, and absolutely essential. You're supporting people's dignity, independence, and wellbeing every single day. Yet care workers are often among the lowest paid in the UK, and some employers use confusing pay structures to make wages look better than they are.
The Real Living Wage ensures you're paid fairly and transparently for every single hour you work.
Other Warning Signs
Be wary of:
Charges for uniforms, DBS checks, or mandatory training
Companies with poor reviews from current or former staff
Vague answers when you ask about the pay structure
The Bottom Line
Real Living Wage employers commit to transparent, fair pay. When you see an employer with RLW accreditation, you know exactly what you're getting: a fair rate for every hour worked, with no hidden deductions or misleading figures.
You deserve clarity and fairness. Don't be afraid to ask questions about pay structures before accepting a role – and don't settle for less than you're worth.
Total Living Care is a Real Living Wage employer and operates a totally transparent pay policy. We believe care workers should know exactly what they're earning, with no hidden surprises or misleading figures.
Insist on your next employer committing to the Real Living Wage.
