Monday marks a significant milestone for Luton Town Football Club – ten years of being committed to paying our staff the Real Living Wage.

A full decade has passed since we became the first football club in the UK to commit to being a Living Wage employer. It was a bold step at the time, but one that has since cemented our reputation as a club that values its people as much as its performance on the pitch.

The Real Living Wage is a voluntary rate that is independently calculated, ‘Unlike the government’s wage rate, the real Living Wage is calculated based on the cost of living to account for essentials like housing, food, travel but also small discretionary expenses that allow for a decent standard of living, for example a meal out for a child’s birthday or school uniform at the start of term’ (Living Wage, 2025).

In 2015, when Luton Town made the pledge to pay all staff the real Living Wage, the conversation was only just beginning around fair pay in football. While top-flight players were earning astronomical salaries, many of the unsung heroes behind the scenes such as stewards, cleaners, hospitality staff were struggling to make ends meet. Recognising this imbalance, Luton Town FC led the way in ensuring that every member of our team receives a fair, liveable wage.

Over the last ten years, this commitment has made a tangible difference to countless employees and their families. A fair wage means more than just financial security, it represents dignity and respect - it’s a philosophy that extends beyond the club’s walls and into the wider Luton community, setting a precedent that others have followed.

While many clubs have since joined the movement, we remain proud pioneers in not only the footballing world, but locally within Luton. Our decision to lead by example has not only benefited our staff but has also contributed to a broader shift in encouraging fairness, sustainability, and responsibility across the industry and wider town.

With football having the power to inspire change both on and off the pitch we stand by our belief that success should be built on a foundation of integrity. That’s why, as we celebrate ten years of being a Living Wage employer, we reaffirm our commitment to fair pay and to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued.

As Luton Town continues its journey, whether battling in the Championship, pushing forwards with Power Court, or making memories in the top flight, our Club values remain the same. We will always strive to do the right thing for our people, our supporters, and our community.

Here’s to the next ten years!