minimum wage

[cheries]

Hi clever people. My friend is 16 and she is being paid �3.00 ph. This is below the minimum wage isn't it? Is this illegal then? Will she be entitled to back pay?

[gina32]

what job does she do?

[cheries]

She works in a garden centre, bless her.

[CheekyChops]

The minimum wage for 16-17 year old increased from �3.00 ph to �3.30 ph in October 06. If she is an apprentice, this doesn't apply.

Has she been 16 since Oct 06 or has she recently turned 16? There is a phone number you can report the employer to if you are being underpaid - National Minimum Wage Helpline on tel: [phone].

[Ethel]

She should be earning �3.30 an hour.

For further information call the minimum wage helpline on 0845 6000 678

[Jibergrt]

Not 100% sure but I was under the impression that the minimum wage for under 18 was voluntary - my son was earning 2.30 ph when he was 16 (18 month ago). Ty putting 'minimum wage into google - it should bring up some info.

[cheries]

Thank you all very much. I have spoken to the DWP and they have agreed to investigate. Many thanks xxx