Starting 1 April 2025, the UK will implement significant increases to both the National Living Wage (NLW) and the National Minimum Wage (NMW), affecting millions of workers across various age groups.

• The National Living Wage for those aged over 21 will increase 6.7% to £12.21 per hour.
• The National Minimum Wage for 18- to 20-year-olds will increase 16.3% to £10.00 per hour.
• The apprenticeship rate, and for 16- to 17-year-olds will increase 18% to £7.55 per hour.

The government has published an impact assessment which shows that these reforms will put around £1.8 billion into the pockets of workers over the next six years, which aims to improve living standards and make working people better off.

Employers: Meet with the Low Pay Commission (regional visits 2025)

UKFT urges UK fashion and textile employers to meet with the Low Pay Commission (LPC) and share your first-hand experiences regarding the impact of the National Minimum Wage. Your insights are crucial in shaping the LPC’s recommendations to the Government on the future of the minimum wage.

While UKFT will contribute to these discussions on behalf of the industry, your direct input will strengthen the case. A written consultation is scheduled for the spring, but the more perspectives the LPC gathers now, the greater the impact we can achieve together. The dates are:

• Dundee on 19-20 March
• London on 15-16 April
• Swansea on 14-15 May
• Exeter on 11-12 June
• Newry on 2-3 July
• Newcastle on 6-7 August

Find out more here