Millions of employees will witness an increase in the minimum wage starting in April of this year. The minimum wage, which represents the lowest hourly pay mandated by law, varies depending on the worker’s age and applies to both full-time and part-time positions.

Effective April 2026, individuals aged 21 and above will experience a 4.1% increase in the minimum wage, climbing from £12.21 per hour to £12.71 per hour. Similarly, those aged between 18 and 20 will observe a raise from £10 per hour to £10.85 per hour.

For individuals under 18 or those serving as apprentices, the minimum wage will elevate from £7.55 per hour to £8 per hour. It is worth noting that many employers surpass the minimum wage requirements.

In an announcement made in November 2025, Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasized the importance of addressing the rising cost of living for working individuals, particularly those with lower incomes. Reeves stated that the National Living Wage will be increased to reward hard-working individuals adequately.

The Real Living Wage, which exceeds the statutory minimum wage and is based on the actual cost of living, is set to rise to £13.45 per hour outside London and £14.80 per hour within London. Employers are expected to adjust to these new rates by May 2026.

If you suspect that you are being paid below the minimum wage, start by reviewing your payslip. Should discrepancies arise, communicate with your employer to rectify the situation. If the issue persists, seeking guidance from the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) is recommended. In extreme cases, taking legal action against the employer or reporting them to HMRC for investigation may be necessary.

Remember, ACAS guidelines specify that pursuing the same issue through multiple legal channels is not permissible.