Pay Inequality Looms Over Decades

The Trades Union Congress has warned that the UK’s gender pay gap is unlikely to close within the next three decades, with the organization estimating that women are currently working for nearly 2 years “for free”. According to the TUC, the average woman employee in the UK effectively works 47 days per year without receiving a corresponding increase in salary, while men receive an equivalent rise of around 14 days. This disparity translates into a pay gap of over £100 billion, with women earning approximately 17% less than men for similar work. The TUC has called on government and employers to take immediate action to address the pay gap, arguing that it is not only morally wrong but also economically unsustainable. The organization suggests that increasing pay equality could boost productivity, reduce employee turnover, and improve overall economic growth. To close the pay gap, the TUC recommends implementing policies such as equal pay audits, transparent salary scales, and regular pay reviews. The organization also advocates for a living wage and stricter enforcement of existing laws to protect workers from discriminatory practices. The warning comes amid growing concerns about inequality and fairness in the workplace, with many organizations already taking steps to address the issue. However, experts say that addressing the root causes of the pay gap will require sustained effort and commitment over an extended period.