Raise the minimum wage for all workers under 18 to at least £10 per hour to ensure they are paid fairly for their work and to help with the rising cost of living as many 16 and 17-year-olds are financially independent and struggle to cover essential living costs on the current minimum wage.

Many 16 and 17-year-olds work in jobs with the same responsibilities as older employees but are paid significantly less because of their age. Some young people are financially independent or help pay for essential costs. We believe the current minimum wage does not reflect the rising cost of living and can make it difficult for young workers to support themselves. Raising the minimum wage for under-18s to at least £10 per hour would, we feel, ensure fairer pay and better support young workers.