ECA welcomes the further clarification provided by the Living Wage Foundation (LWF) regarding the application of the Real Living Wage to apprentices.

This clarification appropriately recognises that Mechanical and Electrical apprenticeships are structured four-year training programmes, with progressive, industry-agreed pay rates that reflect the balance between on-the-job work and substantial off-the-job training, particularly in the earlier stages. 

In a new section on its FAQs, the LWF dedicates a section to apprentices confirming that the “Living Wage accreditation does not require employers to pay the real Living Wage to apprentices”. Explaining that in “Mechanical and Electrical engineering, where the apprenticeship lasts for four years, apprentices spend substantial time in supervised learning and formal training, and pay is usually set through statutory frameworks.”

Alastair Green, Head of Industrial Relations at ECA Member business Dalkia, said: 

“We fully support fair pay for apprentices and welcome the Real Living Wage Foundation’s clarification that it is not mandated for apprentices. Mechanical and Electrical apprentice pay operates within established industry frameworks that reflect the considerable training investment, supervision and structured progression, providing a robust, fair and effective route into skilled employment.

“We’d encourage clients to think twice before mandating RLW for apprentices. It isn’t required under RLW accreditation, and it risks cutting across the long standing industry approach to apprenticeship rates, training costs and progression.”