Important Changes In Legislation

Entitlement to the NMW

Don't fall foul of the minimum wage legislation - here we set out the overall rules and regulations governing minimum rates of pay.

Most workers in the UK over school leaving age are legally entitled to be paid at least the NMW and all employers have to pay it to you if you are entitled to it. It makes no difference:

If you are paid weekly or monthly, by cheque, in cash or in another way
If you work full time, part time or any other working pattern
If you work at your employer's own premises or elsewhere
What size your employer is
Where you work in the UK

You are entitled to the NMW even if you sign a contract agreeing to be paid at a lower rate. This is regardless of whether you sign of your own free will or because your employer persuades or makes you. The contract will have no legal effect and you must still be paid the proper rate.

More help and advice can be found at:

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Employees/TheNationalMinimumWage/DG_10027201

As from October 1st,

The National Minimum Wage increases. The new rates are as follows:-

The main rate for workers aged 21 and over will increase from £5.93 to £6.08

the 18-20 rate will increase £0.06p to £4.98
the 16-17 rate for workers above school leaving age but under 18 will increase to £3.68
the apprentice rate, for apprentices under 19 or 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship will increase to £2.60

Further information including past NMW rates can be viewed on the Low Pay Commission website.