The UK has introduced rules to ensure organisations treat people fairly, including workers, customers, and investors. For example, employers must treat employees fairly in how they manage and reward them. Big companies also have to publish pay specific gender pay gap data.

This factsheet looks at pay fairness, including equal pay and differences between high and low pay. It explains what companies have to report, including gender pay gaps, and shows how sharing pay stories can help employers prove they’re being fair.

Explore our stances on low pay and financial wellbeing and executive pay in more detail, along with actions for government and recommendations for employers.

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