It appears that cleaning at Windsor Castle isn’t the golden ticket to prosperity, especially if the recent job listing for a cleaner at Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh is anything to go by. This particular position, offered at a mere £12 per hour—the absolute minimum wage in Scotland—has raised quite a few eyebrows across Britain.
A Royal Offer That’s Less Than Regal
King Charles III’s call for a cleaner to maintain the royal residence where he spends just one week a year may sound prestigious, but the compensation suggests otherwise. The job promises only 20 hours of work per week spread across four days, including Sundays. At best, the job pays around €1,120 monthly. Though the role includes meals and accommodation—certainly not insignificant perks—the salary itself has left many questioning whether the palace values its staff or simply sees them as placeholders in a larger royal display.
The job advertisement quaintly states it’s an “opportunity to use your enthusiasm and interest in hospitality to deliver the exceptional.” This phraseology might sound noble, but it rings hollow when set against the backdrop of the current economic reality and the King’s own vast personal wealth, reportedly around €1.2 billion.
History Repeats Itself?
The British press, never one to shy away from critiquing the monarchy, has been quick to point out the stark contrast between the King’s fortune and his staff’s wages. This isn’t the first time royal staff have voiced discontent; back in 2015, during Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, employees went on strike seeking fairer wages. The current scenario seems no better and perhaps even bleaker considering the new king’s austerity measures, which might include cutting staff by up to 20%.
Having “British Royal Family” on one’s resume can undoubtedly open doors in many circles. However, for many, the allure of the crown isn’t enough to offset the tangible challenges of living on a minimal wage. The job listing not only reflects the ongoing struggle between historic prestige and modern-day economic realities but also highlights a broader societal issue of fair compensation for all workers, regardless of who employs them.
