National Minimum Wage Update
The draft National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Regulations 2026 have been submitted for parliamentary approval which reflect the recommendations of The Low Pay Commission.
Published: February 12th, 2026
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With effect from 1 April 2026, the rates of the national minimum wage (NMW) will be as follows:
• National Living Wage (NLW) (aged 21 and over): £12.71 (currently £12.21).
• The 18 to 20-year-old rate: £10.85 (currently £10.00).
• The 16 to 17-year-old rate: £8.00 (currently £7.55).
• Apprentice rate: £8.00 (currently £7.55).
• Accommodation offset: £11.10 (currently £10.66).
These rates will apply from the next “pay reference period” after the increase.
The Labour Government have consistently highlighted their ambition to remove the “discriminatory” national minimum wage age bands. The Low Pay Commission have debated how to balance this aim with the risk that employers will not employ younger entry level workers when they would be paid the same as more experienced workers. We shall await with interest to understand the recommendations the Low Pay Commission will make, particularly with regard to lowering the National Living Wage eligibility age to 20, and potentially then 18.
For further information please contact Jaime Penaluna
