Workers across Stone and the West Midlands are starting to see a boost in their payslips as the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage increases take effect.
Eligible full-time workers are set to benefit from a real-terms pay rise worth £1,400 a year. The changes are part of the Government’s wider Plan for Change, aimed at improving living standards and driving local and national growth.
Boosting financial stability for families
The wage rise is designed to help families with the cost of living, offering more financial security for many in our community. It is also expected to have a ripple effect, with some businesses reviewing wider pay structures to keep pace with the new rates.
Employment Rights Minister Justin Madders said:
“Workers across the country are beginning to receive the much-needed boost to their pay slips, as our Plan for Change is putting more money into their pockets.
“By ensuring a hard day’s work is rewarded with a fair day’s pay, we’re raising living standards for millions of families and ensuring that everyone is a part of this government’s mission to deliver economic growth to every part of the UK.
“If you haven’t already, check your pay to ensure you aren’t missing out on a well-deserved pay rise for work done from 1st April.”
Check your payslip
Workers across Stone and the surrounding areas are encouraged to check their payslips to make sure the new rates are being applied. You can visit gov.uk/checkyourpay to see if you are eligible for a rise.
This year, the Government instructed the Low Pay Commission to factor in the cost of living and inflation when setting the new rates, aiming to better reflect real-world pressures.
There are also further changes ahead. The upcoming Employment Rights Bill is set to deliver an extra £600 a year to some of the lowest-paid workers, providing even more help towards living costs.
What’s changed?
From 1st April 2025, the new rates are:
- National Living Wage (21 and over): up 6.7% from £11.44 to £12.21 per hour
- National Minimum Wage (18 to 20): up 16.2% from £8.60 to £10 per hour
- National Minimum Wage (under 18): up 18% to £7.55 per hour
- Apprentice Rate: up 18% from £6.40 to £7.55 per hour
What to do if you think your pay is wrong
If you believe you are not being paid the correct wage:
- Speak to your employer first to try to resolve the issue
- If the problem continues, you can contact Acas for confidential advice on 0300 123 1122
- You can also report underpayment directly to HMRC at www.gov.uk/minimum-wage-complaint
To find out more about your rights, visit:
