National minimum wage increases confirmed

The government has announced the new minimum wage rates that will come into force from 1 April 2026. 

The new rates are as follows: 

Current rate New rate

Aged 21 and over  £12.21 £12.71
Aged 18 to 20 £10.00 £10.85
Aged under 18  £7.55 £8.00
Apprentice rate  £7.55 £8.00