National Minimum Wage Increase from April 2026

From 1st April 2026, new National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW) rates will come into effect across the UK. Whether you are a temporary worker wanting to understand what this means for your pay, or a client planning budgets and workforce costs, here is a clear breakdown of what to expect.

New Minimum Wage Rates from 1st April 2026

The new hourly rates will be:

• Age 21 and over (National Living Wage): £12.71 per hour
• Age 18 to 20: £10.85 per hour
• Age 16 to 17: £8.00 per hour
• Apprentice rate: £8.00 per hour

These increases follow recommendations from the Low Pay Commission and are legally enforceable from 1st April 2026.

What This Means for Temporary Workers

If you work on a temporary basis, you are legally entitled to be paid at least the new minimum rate for your age group from April.

This applies regardless of how many hours you work or whether your shifts change from week to week. Every hour worked must be paid at or above the correct minimum wage rate.

If you move into a new age bracket (for example, turning 21), your pay must increase accordingly from the next pay reference period.

If you are unsure whether you are being paid correctly, you can check your payslips and speak to your agency or employer. Underpayment of minimum wage is unlawful, and workers have the right to raise concerns.

What This Means for Clients

Premier Work Support manage the payroll for all temporary workers and will automatically apply the new minimum wage rates from April 2026. This means your workforce will remain fully compliant, with no extra administration required on your side.

Our role is to make this transition as smooth and straightforward as possible, while continuing to provide reliable, flexible staffing solutions that support your business.

Here’s how we’ll help:

1. Seamless implementation
   We’ll update worker pay in line with the new legislation and take care of all payroll changes, so you can stay focused on running your business.
2. Clear, proactive communication
   Any updates to charge rates will be shared with you in advance, giving you plenty of time to plan. We believe in transparency and will always explain changes clearly.
3. Ongoing workforce support
   Whether you need help planning upcoming shifts, scaling your temporary workforce, or finding the most cost-effective staffing options, our team is here to advise and support you.
4. A continued focus on value
   Temporary staffing remains a flexible and efficient way to manage demand, cover absences and support growth. We’ll work closely with you to ensure you continue to get the best possible value and service.

By working together, we can ensure your temporary workforce is paid fairly while you continue to benefit from responsive, compliant and dependable staffing solutions.

If you have any questions about how these changes affect you, whether as a temporary worker or a client, please contact your local branch of Premier Work Support.