280,000 workers to get a pay rise across the West Midlands as new wage rates take effect

01 Apr 2026

Published in: Member News
280,000 hard-working people across West Midlands will see their pay increase from today [1 April 2026]
  • More money in the pockets of 280,000 working people, as Government takes action to tackle cost of living.
  • £1,500 payslip boost for full-time workers on National Minimum Wage, with £900 boost for those on National Living Wage
  • Commitment to deliver a genuine living wage forms part of the wider agenda to make work pay for everyone.

280,000 hard-working people across West Midlands will see their pay increase from today [1 April 2026], as the Government raises the National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW) rates.

The increase means workers in some of the country's most essential roles — from cleaners starting shifts before dawn, to care workers supporting elderly residents through the night – will take home more money each month, as the Government delivers on its commitment to improve living standards.

Workers on the National Living Wage will see their hourly rate rise to £12.71, an increase of 50p per hour. This means a full-time worker on the NLW will be around £900 better off over the course of a year.

Employment Rights Minister, Kate Dearden said:

“Today’s increase in the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage is a clear signal that this Government is on the side of working people.

“Whether you’re stacking shelves, cleaning offices, or pulling pints, we’re making sure workers get the hard earned pay they deserve – to build an economy that works for everyone.”

This rise builds on the landmark Employment Rights Act, which is set to benefit over 18 million workers across the UK, and underlines the Government's determination to ensure that every working person is treated fairly and with dignity.

This includes extending the right to paternity leave to over 30,000 more new parents each year from 6 April, as well as giving day one access to unpaid parental leave and Statutory Sick Pay.

For more information on the new rates and who is eligible, visit Check Your Pay - Check Your Pay.

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