Good news for pay packets: 6,700 workers get a lift
6,700 workers across Central Bedfordshire are set to get a welcome pay boost of 4.1% next year, as the Chancellor confirmed that minimum wage rates will go up as part of the government’s plan to improve living standards.
Alex Mayer MP said she was pleased as this would mean “more money in local people’s pockets”
The national living wage will rise from £12.21 to £12.71 an hour from April for over-21s, which will increase the annual earnings of these workers by £900.
Younger workers, aged between 18- to 20-year-olds, have especially welcomed the news that they will see an increase of 8.5% to £10.85 an hour. This comes hit on the heals of last year’s biggest boost ever for younger workers as part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to narrow the pay gap with older workers.
The minimum wage for 16 to 17-year-olds and those on apprenticeships will increase by 6% to £8 an hour.
Alex Mayer MP said “I am pleased that the living wage is rising so more people are properly rewarded for their hard work. These changes are particularly going to benefit many young people across Dunstable, Leighton Buzzard, Houghton Regis and surrounding areas. A bigger pay packet will hopefully mean more people spending on our high streets creating a virtuous circle.”