According to the Trade Union Congress, about one million workers are to benefit as the national minimum wage (NMW) increases to £5.80 per hour on the 1st of October. Two in three of these beneficiaries will be women, strengthening the NMW's positive role in narrowing the gender pay gap.
The TUC also welcomes the reduction of the threshold for the adult rate from age 22 to 21, which will give around 50,000 21-year-olds an extra increase this year. TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said: 'The minimum wage is one of this Government's greatest successes and low paid workers will be relieved to see it increase again this year. It is now illegal for employers to use tips left by customers in cafes, restaurants, hotels and bars to make up the minimum wage for their staff. The Statutory Redundancy Pay has also increased from £350 to £380 a week.
The NMW is enforced by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Employers can be fined up to £5,000 per offence under the National Minimum Wage Act. The Pay and Work Rights helpline gives advice on the minimum wage and other employment rights and can pass cases to the HMRC for enforcement. The number is 0800 917 2368.
For more information visit the TUC website.
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