A WORKER at Warrington's Ikea store says being paid a Living Wage has transformed his working life.

Matt Mortimer, aged 23, was speaking out during Living Wage Week last week.

The Great Sankey resident, who has worked at the furniture giant for two years, says it has increased his motivation for work.

He added: "It means I really respect and appreciate my employer’s values and ways of operating.

"As a result of my enthusiasm, I’ve been able to apply for new opportunities at the Warrington store. This led me to accept the position of customer relations admin specialist. More recently, I’ve been accepted onto the 'fast tracker' course, which helps co-workers to pursue a career in management.

And he believes his standard of living has increased too.

"The Living Wage has given me more freedom outside work, helping me to increase my work/life balance," he said.

"In addition, it means I have fewer money worries, especially when it comes to socialising.

"If companies are financially able to do so, I would really recommend they introduce the Living Wage.

It’s proven that it really helps to increase employee morale and as a result, the way we think and behave about our roles within the business.

This helps contribute to the success of IKEA and its 10,000 co-workers across the UK."