London workers more likely to trade pay rises for practical perks

A new survey has found that many Londoners would choose work perks over pay rises.

This latest report highlights the increasing demand for businesses to provide practical benefits to help their employees balance work and family responsibilities.

This is especially true for those living in more costly parts of the country, such as the capital.

Meal vouchers and childcare support

Robert Half’s latest Salary Guide, which examines evolving pay expectations and the importance of emerging perks and benefits, found that ‘family-friendly’ perks are becoming a critical factor for London workers.

For example, 43% of employees say that access to on-site childcare provisions would influence their decision to stay with an employer or accept a new job.

This is due to the increasing nursery fees being put on parents – the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) revealed a 15% average increase in nursery fees earlier this year.

Meal vouchers are another factor that would influence whether workers would move jobs, as cited by 64% of respondents.

This benefit is particularly appealing in London, where food prices and lunch costs remain among the highest in the UK.

Phil Boden, Market Director at Robert Half, commented, “Employers who invest in these benefits demonstrate a genuine commitment to employee wellbeing. In a competitive market, this approach doesn’t just help businesses stand out; it builds loyalty, engagement, and resilience across the workforce.”

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