Starbucks UK is announcing two new initiatives as part of its on-going commitment to help partners, particularly those aged under-25, tackle the cost of living, reports the company in a press release.
The Home Sweet Loan programme, developed by Shelter as the Tenancy Deposit Loan Scheme, means that Starbucks will provide an interest-free loan to help partners pay rental deposits when they’re moving into a new home.
The first-of-its-kind programme is being launched by a private company in the UK, following the example of government departments and the Co-operative.
Starbucks has also announced plans to extend the National Living Wage to all partners, including those aged under the age of 25.
This commitment to the National Living Wage recommendations will increase its basic pay to £7.20 per hour in April 2016 for all employees, including apprentices and more than 4,500 members of staff who are under 25.
Going beyond the Government’s recommendations, Starbucks will also pay a London Premium for partners working in the capital.