The National Minimum Wage Act specifies the minimum rates of pay applicable nationwide.
As of 1 October 2011, the adult rate for workers aged 21 and over is £6.08 per hour. The development rate for 18-20 year olds and for workers receiving accredited training in the first 6 months of a new job is £4.98 per hour. The rate for 16-17 year olds starts lower at £3.68 an hour.
Apprentices under the age of 19, or 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship, are entitled to at least £2.60 per hour.
There are special provisions for some workers, for example those on standby or workers provided with accommodation.
Pay means gross pay and includes items such as overtime, bonus payments and commission. However, following a succesful union campaign tips and gratuities do not count towards the sums due under the National Minimum Wage.
You can check whether you're entitled to the National Minimum Wage, at which rate, and how much you can expect with our minimum wage calculator.
