- Conference
- 2024 National Young Members' Conference
- Date
- 30 July 2024
- Decision
- Carried
Conference notes that across the UK hourly minimum wage rates differ based on age.
Conference notes that the current National Living Wage (£11.44 per hour) only applies to those aged 21 and over, with those aged 18 – 20 and those under 18, but of at least school leaving age, receiving differing reduced minimum wage rates.
Conference further notes that apprentices receive an apprentice rate if aged under 19, or aged 19 and over and in the first year of their apprenticeship.
Conference is mindful that low pay is prevalent amongst young workers.
Conference believes that it is wrong that young workers, undertaking the same work as older colleagues, working for the same employers, are paid at a reduced rate based on their age.
Conference recalls UNISON’s #OneWageAnyAge campaign against age differentials in the minimum wage which sought to abolish these age bands and supports ongoing efforts to achieve this goal. Conference further recalls UNISON’s support for a real living wage, calculated and based on the real cost of living. Conference believes that, with the recent change of UK Government, it is now time to intensify these campaigns to address low pay amongst young workers.
Conference therefore calls on the National Young Member’s Forum, working with the National Executive Council, service groups, and devolved regions to renew the campaign to abolish age bands in minimum wages and secure fairness for young workers.