National Minimum Wage

The national minimum wage was introduced to provide employees with decent minimum standards and fairness in the workplace. It applies to nearly all workers and sets hourly rates below which pay must not be allowed to fall. It helps business by ensuring companies will be able to compete on the basis of quality of the goods and services they provide and not on low prices based predominantly on low rates of pay. There are two rates which are based on the recommendations of the independent Low Pay Commission. The rate for adults is higher and applies for workers aged over 21.

The Development rate applies for younger workers aged between 18 and 21. However the development rate can also apply to workers aged 22 and above during their first 6 months in a new job with a new employer and who are receiving accredited training.

Minimum wage for Young People

If you are older than school leaving age but younger than 18 or you're under school leaving age until the end of summer term of the school year in which you turn 16, you are also entitled to a minmum wage.  Find out more >>

National Minimum Wage and Volunteers

Under the National Minimum Wage Act volunteers will be seen as 'workers'.