Workers in Scotland are to benefit from the 'largest ever cash' boost to the National Minimum Wage.

200,000 workers across the country will receive a pay increase as the National Minimum Wage and National Living rise comes into effect from today (Monday, April 1).

The rate rises include a 9.8 per cent increase in the National Living Wage - taking it from £10.42 per hour to £11.44.

The £1.02 increase per hour is the 'largest ever cash increase' to the National Living Wage.

The full increases from April 1, 2024 are:

  • The National Living Wage (21+) has increased 9.8 per cent, from £10.42 to £11.44
  • National Minimum Wage (18-20) has increased 14.8 per cent, from £7.49 to £8.60
  • National Minimum Wage (under 18) has increased by 21.2 per cent, from £5.28 to £6.40
  • Apprentice Rate has increased 21.2 per cent from £5.28 to £6.40
  • The Accommodation Offset also increased 9.8 per cent from £9.10 to £9.99

 

Business Minister Kevin Hollinrake said: “Today’s announcement is an historic moment, as we end low hourly pay for those on the National Living Wage in the UK.

“Full-time workers on the National Living Wage now earn over £8,600 a year more since its introduction, as we continue to protect people’s income.

“Today’s increase will help around 3 million low-paid workers, supporting families in Scotland and across the UK.”

Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said: “The biggest ever rise to the National Living Wage that comes into force today will make a huge difference to around 200,000 hard-working Scots, with an increase of more than £1 an hour to £11.44.

“This comes on top of the second 2p cut to National Insurance, in addition to the first 2p cut in January, worth an average of £680 extra per year to around 2.4million Scottish workers.

"Seeing people keep more of their hard-earned wages is all part of our plan to boost prosperity as we see the economy grow.”