Minimum Wage

National Minimum Wage (and Living Wage)
 
The minimum wage rates for all ages as from 1st April 2025 are as follows: 
 

21 and over

£12.21 per hour

18-20 year olds

£10.00 per hour

Under 18-year-olds

£7.55 per hour

Apprentice rate

£7.55 per hour

Accommodation Rate:

£10.66 per day or £74.62 per week

 

New Minimum Wage Rates from 1st April 2026

The UK Government has confirmed that from 1 April 2026 the statutory minimum wage rates will increase, based on the latest recommendations from the Low Pay Commission.

21 and over

£12.71 per hour

18-20 year olds

£10.85 per hour

16-17 and apprentices

£8.00 per hour

 

These changes aim to support lower-paid employees with rising living costs, but they will also mean higher wage bills for many employers. Businesses should start planning now — updating payroll, reviewing staffing budgets, and ensuring all pay reference periods are handled correctly to stay compliant.

Overall, the 2026 uplift continues the trend of steady increases in statutory pay, reinforcing the need for organisations to prepare early and manage the impact on their operations.

Previous Minimum Wage Rates 
 
The previous minimum wage rates to 31st March 2025 for all ages were:
 

21 and over

£11.44 per hour

18-20 year olds

£8.60 per hour

Under 18-year-olds

£6.40 per hour

Apprentice rate

£6.40 per hour

Accommodation Rate:

£9.99 per day or £69.93 per week