Know Your Employment Rights in 2026
Minimum Wage Changes and Worker Protections
Understanding your employment rights in the UK is essential whether you’re starting a new role, working through a recruitment agency, or progressing in your career.
In 2026, workers across the UK will see important changes to minimum wage rates, alongside continued protections under UK employment law.
At Bennett Staff, we believe candidates should feel informed and confident about their rights at work. This guide explains the minimum wage increase coming into effect in April 2026, along with key employment rights every worker should know.
UK Minimum Wage Increase: April 2026
From 1 April 2026, the UK government will introduce new National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates.
| Age Group | Hourly Rate from April 2026 |
| 21 and over (National Living Wage) | £12.71 |
| 18–20 years old | £10.85 |
| 16–17 years old | £8.00 |
| Apprentices | £8.00 |
For workers aged 21 and over, the National Living Wage will rise from £12.21 to £12.71 per hour. This increase aims to help workers keep pace with rising living costs and ensure fair pay across industries.
Employers are legally required to pay at least the minimum wage for your age group.
What Counts Towards the Minimum Wage?
When calculating minimum wage pay, not every type of payment counts.
Payments that count
- Basic hourly wages
- Commission payments
Some productivity bonuses
Payments that do NOT count
- Tips or service charges
Overtime premiums - Expenses or travel reimbursements
- Benefits like meals or accommodation (except within certain limits)
This means that your base pay must meet minimum wage requirements before tips or bonuses are added.
Key Employment Rights Every Worker Should Know
In the UK, workers are protected under legislation such as the Employment Rights Act 1996.
Here are some of the most important rights you should be aware of.
Written Terms of Employment
You should receive a written statement of employment particulars outlining:
- Pay rate
- Working hours
- Holiday entitlement
- Notice periods
- Job responsibilities
This document should be provided on or before your first day of work.
Paid Holiday Entitlement
Most workers in the UK are entitled to 5.6 weeks of paid annual leave per year.
This applies to both full-time and part-time employees, with holiday entitlement pro-rated based on hours worked.
Protection from Unlawful Wage Deductions
Employers cannot deduct money from your wages unless:
- The deduction is required by law (e.g., tax or National Insurance)
- It is clearly stated in your employment contract
- You have agreed to the deduction in writing
Rest Breaks and Working Time Rights
Under UK working time regulations, most workers are entitled to:
- A 20-minute rest break if working more than 6 hours
- 11 hours of rest between shifts
- At least one full day off each week
Protection from Workplace Discrimination
Workers in the UK are protected from discrimination based on characteristics such as:
- Age
- Gender
- Disability
- Race
Religion - Sexual orientation
Employers must provide a workplace that is fair, inclusive, and compliant with equality legislation.
What To Do If You’re Not Being Paid the Minimum Wage
If you believe your employer is paying below the legal minimum wage, you can take action.
Steps to consider:
- Raise the issue with your employer first.
- Speak with us if you were placed via Bennett Staff or your agency.
- Seek confidential advice from the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS).
Employers who fail to pay the minimum wage can face financial penalties and may be required to repay workers.
How Bennett Staff Support Worker Rights
If you are working through a recruitment agency, you should receive clear information about:
- Your pay rate
- Working hours
- Holiday entitlement
- Employment status
- Workplace policies
- Temporary workers are auto-enrolled into the pension after 12 weeks of work
A reputable recruitment agency will ensure placements comply with UK employment law and that candidates are treated fairly.
The minimum wage increase in April 2026 is good news for many UK workers. However, knowing your full employment rights is just as important as understanding your hourly pay.
By staying informed about minimum wage laws and worker protections, you can ensure you are being treated fairly and paid correctly.
If you’re currently looking for new opportunities, the team at Bennett Staff is here to support you every step of the way.
Contact the team on – 0161 368 5511
