Millions of workers who are picking up extra shifts or taking on short-term contracts this Christmas should closely examine their pay slips.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has clarified that seasonal staff and students working over the festive period have the legal right to minimum wage entitlements. For those aged 21 and above, the current hourly minimum wage is £11.44, whereas individuals aged between 18 to 20 must be remunerated with at least £8.60 per hour.
Under-18s and apprentices are entitled to a minimum wage of £6.40 an hour. In addition, HMRC cautions against unpaid work time, such as time spent training, cleaning, closing premises, or picking up additional hours, reports the Mirror.
In a video shared across social media, HMRC said: “Have you started a Christmas job? No matter how long you’ve been employed for, you are legally entitled to be paid at least the National Minimum Wage. This includes temporary seasonal staff working in shops, hotels, garden centres, Christmas markets, restaurants and warehouses.”
“Always make sure that you check your pay and look out for any deductions, or unpaid working time that could take you below the minimum wage. If you think you’ve been short changed, even if you no longer work for that employer, we’re here to help.”
Many businesses actually offer their employees a salary above the minimum wage. However, if you are not receiving the correct pay, there are steps you should take.
Firstly, speak to your employer in an attempt to resolve the issue. If that proves ineffective, consider initiating a formal grievance process or, as a last resort, take legal action against your employer at a tribunal.
It’s advisable to get guidance from Acas, an independent public entity providing free and impartial advice on workplace matters, or Citizens Advice before embarking on any legal processes.
From April, there will be a 6.7% increase in the minimum wage, which will change depending on your age bracket:.
- 21 and over: £11.44 an hour to £12.21 an hour
- 18 to 20: £8.60 an hour to £10 an hour
- Under 18: £6.40 an hour to £7.55 an hour
- Apprentice: £6.40 an hour to £7.55 an hour
Labour has earlier this year proposed instituting a “genuine” living wage, abolishing the distinction in pay based on age, with the goal of establishing a unified rate for all adults.