The minimum wage
Make sure your job pay you right.
What is the minimum wage?
In the UK, the National Minimum Wage basically exists to protect you from being underpaid in hourly-paid jobs. Monitored by the Low Pay Commission, it aims to close the gap in regional pay differences and keep salaries in line with other European countries.
The National Minimum Wage does have its critics. Some businesses in the private sector believe it puts an unfair squeeze on them, and would like to see the increase met by other sources such as government subsidies or tax breaks. But for the average punter it's good news. Not only does it give you a guaranteed minimum pay bracket, it's also reviewed every year to ensure the rates are fair.
How much should I be getting paid?
From 1st October 2008, the National Minimum Wage is:
- For those aged 22 or over is £5.73 per hour;
- For those aged 18 to 21 the rate is £4.77;
- For those aged 16-17 the rate is £3.53 per hour.
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