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Increase in pay for apprentices
From 1 August 2009 the national minimum wage (NMW) for apprentices increased from £80 to £95 per week.
This announcement was originally made in September 2008, when TUC General Secretary, Brendan Barber, said:
“The announcement will be a welcome boost for the thousands of low-paid apprentices, particularly women, who are struggling to make ends meet.”
“Pay increases will help more people to complete their training and boost the reputation of apprenticeships. Employers will also benefit from a greater number of skilled employees and as a result more organisations will be attracted to the ever improving apprenticeship brand.”
“This is a victory for the TUC's campaign for better apprentice pay. But, as strong supporters of apprenticeships, the TUC will continue to campaign for higher standards and further increases in apprentice pay will help achieve this.”
Women working in childcare and hairdressing, typically low paid apprenticeships, are expected to be the main beneficiaries of the increase.
Internet link: TUC learning initiative
