Back in April 2025, millions of UK workers should have received a pay rise. Did you get yours? And if not, the question remains – why didn’t you see the increase?
The Government confirmed significant rises to the National Living Wage (NLW) and National Minimum Wage (NMW) rates, acting on the recommendations of the Low Pay Commission (LPC). For those who did receive the uplift, the boost came as welcome relief against the backdrop of rising costs. But for anyone left wondering why their pay packet has not changed, it is worth checking eligibility and ensuring the correct rate is being applied by employers.
The rates introduced back in April 2025
| Wage category | Rate from April 2025 | Increase (£) | Increase (%) | Implemented |
| National Living Wage (21+) | £12.21 | £0.77 | 6.7% | Yes |
| 18–20 year olds | £10.00 | £1.40 | 16.3% | Yes |
| 16–17 year olds | £7.55 | £1.15 | 18.0% | Yes |
| Apprentices | £7.55 | £1.15 | 18.0% | Yes |
| Accommodation offset | £10.66 | £0.67 | 6.7% | Yes |
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Why these rises were introduced
The LPC’s remit required that the NLW remain no lower than two-thirds of median earnings. Economic forecasts for 2025 were stronger than previously expected, while inflation had eased from its peak, creating scope for higher increases.
However, the Commission also acknowledged the reality: while inflation slowed, essentials such as energy, housing and food remained well above pre-crisis levels. For UK workers, the pay rise was a step forward – but not a cure-all for years of squeezed living standards.
Did you get your pay rise?
For many workers, April 2025 brought a welcome boost:
- 21 and over: £12.21 per hour (up 6.7%).
- 18–20 year olds: £10 per hour (up 16.3%).
- 16–17 year olds and apprentices: £7.55 per hour (up 18%).
But if you didn’t see this reflected in your wages, the obvious question is why not? Employers are legally required to pay at least the applicable minimum rate. In some cases, delays in payroll systems, errors in categorising worker ages, or misunderstanding of apprentice status can mean staff miss out. All UK Workers are encouraged to check payslips and query discrepancies directly with their employers.
Employers under pressure
Employers in low-paying sectors such as retail, care and hospitality continue to highlight the challenges of meeting these higher wage costs and understanding the UK national minimum wage implications. While many have raised prices to cover the changes, others – particularly those in publicly funded services – have far less flexibility.
Despite these concerns, the LPC concluded that the rises were achievable, pointing to lower labour shortages and more stable costs as reasons the economy could absorb the adjustments.
Looking ahead
The Government has pledged to keep pushing towards a genuine living wage for all adult workers, while gradually narrowing the gap for younger staff. The LPC will continue to review how these policies unfold and how they affect both workers and employers.
Baroness Philippa Stroud, Chair of the LPC, underlined that the Commission’s role is to strike a balance between fairness for workers and sustainability for businesses, even in an uncertain economic climate.
So in conclusion
Back in April 2025, millions of UK workers should have received a pay rise. Did you get yours? If not, the question remains why your pay did not reflect the new legal minimums – and it is worth checking whether the right rate is being applied to you. For those who did see an increase, the changes have provided at least some relief in difficult times.
