Important changes to the National Minimum Wage are set to come into force on 1 October, and a local solicitor is advising all businesses that employ low-paid people, or have staff who receive tips from customers, to familiarise themselves with the changes.
"First, the rates are going up," says Alex Jones of Bunkers Solicitors in Hove. "For workers aged 22 or over, it will rise from £5.73 to £5.80 an hour. It will go up from £4.77 to £4.83 an hour for people aged 18 to 21. And it will rise from £3.53 to £3.57 an hour for 16 and 17-year-olds."
Using tips to raise staff pay to the Minimum Wage will be outlawed on the same date. "When announcing this change, Pat McFadden, who is now the Minister for Business, Innovation and Skills, said that it was not right for employers to use tips meant as a bonus for staff to boost pay levels to the legal minimum," Alex continues.
"This is certainly commendable, but there is a possibility that some businesses may experience an increase in their costs could force them to shed staff."
Alex is keen to emphasise that Bunkers is very experienced at helping businesses ensure that they fulfil all their legal responsibilities, including compliance with the requirements of the National Minimum Wage. "If you have any concerns about what these changes may mean for your business, please call us on 01273 329797 to arrange a meeting," he says.
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