Historic rise in wages

From April 1st, pensions rise above inflation, and wages increase, with the national living wage growing at its fastest rate in three years. This increase is a key step toward age and wage equality. This year’s wage rise marks the first part of a two-phase plan to close the age gap, recognising that bills are no cheaper if you're 20 instead of 23. By April 2026, workers aged 18+ will be paid equally to those aged 20+.

Key updates include:

• National Living Wage for those aged 21+ will rise by 6.7% to £12.21 an hour, boosting an eligible full-time worker’s income by £1,400 a year.

• National Minimum Wage for those aged 18-20 will increase by 16%, to £10 an hour, representing a record £1.40 per hour increase, worth £2,500 a year for full-time workers.

• Under 18s & Apprentices will see their wage rise to £7.55 an hour.

  
  

These reforms are part of the Government’s broader agenda to create a fairer society, ensuring young people are paid fairly for their work and have access to more opportunities, particularly apprenticeships. Fair wages contribute to greater financial independence and reduce the number of young adults living at home. By empowering young people with better wages, we expect to see lasting positive effects across society.