Millions of workers across the United Kingdom are receiving a pay increase as the National Living Wage rises to £12.71 per hour from 1 April 2026. The rate applies to employees aged 21 and over and is up 4.1 per cent from £12.21, following recommendations from the Low Pay Commission accepted by the government.
Updated minimum wage rates also apply to younger workers. Those aged 18 to 20 will receive £10.85 per hour, an increase of 8.5 per cent, while 16- to 17-year-olds and apprentices will be paid £8.00 per hour. The changes form part of a wider policy to raise earnings for lower-paid workers and narrow age-based pay differences.
