UK set for largest increase in National Living Wage

The National Living Wage (NLW) increases tomorrow (1 April) by 9.7% to £10.42, providing a pay rise to millions of workers aged 23 and over across the UK.

In addition, 21-22 year olds will see their pay increase by 10.9% to £10.18 per hour, while pay for younger workers and apprentices will also rise by 9.7%.

Bryan Sanderson, Chair of the Low Pay Commission, said: “Despite turbulent economic conditions, the labour market has remained strong and unemployment is low. We remain confident that this increase is unlikely to have a detrimental impact. Indeed, the high levels of inflation are felt more acutely by those on low pay who spend a higher proportion of their income on energy and food.

“The new NLW rate keeps us on track to reach the government’s target of two-thirds of median earnings by 2024. We estimate the NLW will need to rise next year to between £10.90 and £11.43 to meet this target. We also remain committed to lowering the NLW age threshold to 21 years of age in 2024.”