Changes to the National Minimum Wage (NMW) rates will take effect from 1 April 2017, bringing the date in line with the change to the National Living Wage (NLW). The NLW, which applies to workers aged 25 and older, will increase from the present £7.20 per hour to £7.50 per hour.
Other changes occurring at the same time are as follows:
- The adult rate of the NMW, applicable to those aged 21 to 24, will increase from £6.95 to £7.05 per hour;
- The development rate of the NMW, payable to 18- to 20-year-olds, will increase from £5.55 to £5.60 per hour;
- The youth rate of the NMW, payable to 16- and 17-year-olds, will increase from £4.00 to £4.05 per hour; and
- The apprentice rate of the NMW will increase from £3.40 to £3.50 per hour.
In addition, from 2 April 2017 statutory maternity, adoption, paternity and shared parental leave rates will increase from £139.58 per week to £140.98. From 6 April 2017 the rate for statutory sick pay will increase from £88.45 per week to £89.35.