Your rights at work

The rules around what you should be paid can be tricky and the most up-to-date advice is available on the UK Government website

The minimum wage a worker should get depends on their age and if they’re an apprentice.

The National Minimum Wage is the minimum pay per hour almost all workers are entitled to. The National Living Wage is higher than the National Minimum Wage - workers get it if they’re over 23.

Here's a rough guide by age.

Apprentices  - Apprentice Rate is £5.28

Age 16-17 get National Minimum Wage at £5.28 per hour before tax.

Age 18-20 get National Minimum Wage at £7.49 per hour before tax.

Age 21-22 get National Minimum Wage at £10.18 per hour before tax.

Age 23+ get National Living Wage at £10.42 per hour before tax.

Real Living Wage

This is voluntary and is calculated according to the cost of living, based on a basket of household goods and services. It covers the 18+ age group and is set at £11.95 per hour before tax in London and £10.90 in the rest of the UK.

A number of employers across South Lanarkshire including the council pay the real living wage. The idea behind the Living Wage is that it is enough to ensure that workers live free from poverty. Employers pay it on a voluntary basis. If you have any questions about your employment rights, your
local Citizens Advice or Trade Union can advise or check the rights to work section of the Citizens Advice Guide.