Two steps forward

The gender pay gap in the UK has increased in 2024 for the first time in two years, according to a report from The Global Payroll Association (GPA). This development marks a reversal of trend, following a period in which the gap had steadily narrowed.

Data analysed by the GPA reveals that the average hourly wage for male employees in the UK reached £23.11, while female employees earned an average of £19.92 per hour in 2024. This translates to an increase of £1.56 in average pay for men, compared to a £1.22 rise for women. Consequently, the annual gender pay gap score now sits at 13.8, an increase from last year’s score of 13.2. A score of zero would indicate complete pay equality.

London has been identified as a key driver of this widening gap, recording the highest regional gender pay gap score at 18.8. Other regions following London include the South East with a score of 18, the East of England at 17.4, the South West at 15.1, and the East Midlands at 14.3. Notably, Wales has emerged as the region closest to achieving pay equality, with a gender pay gap score of 7.2, surpassing Scotland, which stands at 8.2.

The GPA’s analysis also highlights significant regional shifts. London experienced the most pronounced increase in its gender pay gap score, rising by 2.6 points compared to the previous year. The East of England also witnessed an increase of 1.6 points, while Scotland’s gap grew by 1.4 points. Conversely, five UK regions, including the West Midlands and Yorkshire & Humber, saw improvements with scores declining.

Melanie Pizzey, CEO and Founder of the GPA, expressed concern over the widening of the gender pay gap, particularly in a diverse and economically vibrant city like London. She said, "It’s disappointing to see London leading the way when it comes to the most notable widening of the gender pay gap. You would hope that in a city as diverse as our capital, which attracts top professional talent from around the globe, businesses would be more receptive to the concept of equal pay.”

The latest findings have reignited debates around gender equality in the workplace and raise questions about the continuing challenges women face in achieving pay parity. The increase in the gender pay gap score indicates that despite recent progress, significant work remains in addressing pay inequalities among genders in the UK.