National & Living Wage increases from 1st April
On Friday 1st April, National Living Wage (NLW) and National Minimum Wage (NMW) rates across the UK will increase.
It's important that employers are aware that these rates of pay are increasing as those found to be paying eligible staff less than the NLW or NMW could be subject to investigation by HMRC and fined and/or taken to court.
The rates from 1st April 2022 will be as follows:
| Age 23 and over (National Living Wage) | £9.50 per hour |
| Age 21 to 22 | £9.18 per hour |
| Age 18 to 20 | £6.83 per hour |
| Under 18 of school leaving age | £4.81 per hour |
| Apprentice | £4.81 per hour |
The Apprentice rate applies to apprentices aged under 19, or 19 or over and in their first year of their current apprenticeship agreement. Apprentices who have completed their first year and are aged 19 or over are entitled to be paid the NMW for their age.
Employees who are not paid the appropriate rate of pay can report to their employer to HMRC (which can be anonymous) if you cannot resolve the issue with them direct. Alternatively a claim can be made to an employment tribunal.
For advice, employees can contact ACAS.
Employers and employees can find out more on the UK Government website.
ACAS helpline
0300 123 1100
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