According to the TUC 135,000 apprentices in England are being paid below the minimum wage.
The findings come as TUC promote Young Workers Month, through their Freedom of Information Requests (FOI) they have identified that 1 in 7 (15%) of the 900,000 apprentices in England are being paid less than the minimum wage and that the government has only prosecuted fewer than five employers.
In this weeks budget the government have set out plans to raise the apprentice minimum wage from April next year, you can read more about the budget and the new wages set here.
Laura-Jane Rawlings, CEO, Youth Employment UK said:
“What is concerning from this TUC announcement is how many young people are being exploited by employers in the name of apprenticeships. We know that apprenticeships offer a real opportunity to many young people to be able to progress and fulfil their potential. Many employers who provide apprenticeship opportunities do so in the spirit that is intended, to support people to earn and learn and progress. Employers who undermine these principles should face some formal action from government, and questions should be asked of the providers supporting the employers and apprentice.”
Next Steps:
- Join Youth Employment UK as a Community Member
- Read more about how you can showcase your Youth Friendly behaviour with the Talent Match Mark
- Looking to improve your skills? Find out more about our free Young Professional Membership
