HMS Unicorn on board with the Living Wage

A major visitor attraction in Dundee has committed to fair pay and secure work by joining the Dundee Living Wage Family.

HMS Unicorn, located in Dundee’s City Quay, is a well-known tourist destination and is much loved by locals, attracting around 10,000 visitors every year.

At just over 200 years old, HMS Unicorn is Scotland’s oldest ship. She was built at Chatham Dockyard in 1824 and due to not being used in active service, remains one of the most original wooden ships of her time.

The post-Napoleonic war frigate is an iconic piece of Dundee’s maritime history first docking in the city in 1873 and after many different locations, uses, and even a change in name, she has been a part of the city’s tourist offering for around 50 years.

Owned and operated by The Unicorn Preservation Society, who are in charge of her conservation, they employ 12 staff and because of their recent accreditation have been able to uplift 3 of those workers to the real living wage, which is currently £12.60 per hour.

Appointed this year, Andrew Tibbs is The Unicorn Preservation Society’s Chief Executive and has been a driving force behind their recent accreditation.

Andrew said: “Becoming Living Wage accredited was an easy decision and I am incredibly proud that we as an organisation have taken this step as it’s vitally important for our staff. Paying the real Living Wage makes them feel more valued and secure in their role.

“This announcement also brings benefits to our visitors and will add to their experience on board. It also enhances our reputation as an employer.

“As we look to the future plans we have for HMS Unicorn, it is clear that investing in our people is also key to her long term success as an attraction.”

Along with members of the Dundee Living Wage action group, Councillor Steven Rome, Convener of the council’s Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure committee visited the vessel for a tour and to meet with Andrew. He presented an accreditation certificate and heard more about the preservation efforts and future plans for the ship.

Cllr Rome said: "Visiting HMS Unicorn to formally welcome the preservation society to the Dundee Living Wage family has reminded me of what an asset it is to the city, and I am delighted they have committed to this enhanced rate of pay.

"Speaking with Andrew and hearing him speak so passionately about both the ship and the reasoning behind becoming accredited, it was clear to me this will have a huge benefit to staff, visitors, and the city as a whole."

"I would encourage any business out there thinking of becoming accredited to get in touch. Living Wage Scotland and the action group are always ready to help and support you to become a Living Wage accredited employer."

There are over 120 Living Wage accredited employers headquartered in Dundee collectively employing over 43,000 thousand workers.

Lynn Anderson, Living Wage Scotland Manager said: "We're delighted that The Unicorn Preservation Society (HMS Unicorn) has become an accredited Living Wage employer. They join a growing movement of employers across Dundee whose commitment strengthens ambitions to Make Dundee a Living Wage Place.

"The security of a real Living Wage can help create a happier, healthier and more motivated workforce, something which is recognised by employers from across all sectors and industries. We hope to see many more join the Unicorn Preservation Society in going further than the minimum."

More information about the 'Making Dundee A Living Wage Living City' campaign as well as contact details for the action group can be found on the council's website.