The National Minimum Wage has increased for everyone. Make sure you get the rise if it applies to you.
As of 1st October 2010 970,000 people will be better off thanks to an increase in the National Minimum Wage.
Individuals taking home the standard minimum rate - previously only paid to workers age 22 and above, but now available to those over the age of 21 too - will see their pay increase by 13p an hour to £5.93.
While 18-20 year olds will see their hourly rate rise by 9p to £4.92, and those aged 16 and 17 will receive a 7p/hour pay rise; elevating their hourly wage to £3.64.
What's more, for the first time ever a National Minimum Wage has been set for those undertaking an apprenticeship. This is set at £2.50/hour both for those under the age of 19, and for those over the age of 19 who are in the first year of study. Apprentices over the age of 19 in their second year and beyond are now entitled to the same National Minimum Wage as the rest of their age group.
So if you (or your children) are in receipt of the National Minimum Wage, or are studying as part of an apprenticeship, then make sure your employer updates your remuneration accordingly.
Discussing pay can feel awkward but employers now have more of an incentive to update wages in a timely fashion as from January the Department of Business will be starting a 'name and shame' campaign highlighting those that fail to pay their staff in accordance with the stipulated minimum.
If your boss isn't playing by the pay rules, you can get advice and/or lodge an official complaint against them by contacting the Pay and Work Rights Helpline.
