Cost-of-living pressures push London staff to seek practical perks

Robert Half’s latest Salary Guide reports strong demand for on-site childcare and meal vouchers, with many workers basing career decisions on support that offsets day-to-day expenses

Its latest Salary Guide suggests that traditional pay rises are losing ground to perks that directly offset household pressures.

The firm reports that 43 per cent of professionals in the capital would factor on-site childcare provision into their decision to stay with an employer or accept a new role. 

The shift follows a 15 per cent average rise in nursery fees this year, as reported by the National Day Nurseries Association, leaving working parents seeking support that reduces day-to-day costs.

Food-related benefits are exerting an even stronger pull. Robert Half found that 64 per cent of London workers would be influenced to move jobs if meal vouchers were offered – a trend linked to higher lunch and grocery prices in the capital. 

The firm says the vouchers now provide meaningful financial relief for many employees and are emerging as a significant recruitment and retention tool.

Phil Boden, its Market Director, said rising living costs were reshaping expectations across the workforce. He said: “Our latest data shows a clear shift in what London professionals value most from their employers. With rising costs continuing to impact households, employees are looking beyond traditional pay rises for benefits that deliver real, everyday support. Meal vouchers, for example, are no longer seen as a nice-to-have, they’re becoming a deciding factor for nearly two-thirds of workers in the capital. This reflects a growing need for practical solutions that help ease financial pressures and improve quality of life.“At the same time, childcare support remains a priority, particularly as nursery fees rise. For working parents, access to on-site childcare can make the difference between staying in a role or seeking new opportunities. These findings underline a broader trend: perks that were once considered optional are now essential for attracting and retaining talent.

“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.”

Robert Half said demand for family-friendly packages and everyday financial support is now influencing both recruitment strategies and staff retention across London, with employers increasingly expected to offer benefits that provide immediate, tangible value.

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