The National Minimum Wage is the minimum pay per hour that most employees or workers are entitled to. The National Living Wage is higher than the National Minimum Wage and all workers over 21 years of age are entitled to receive it. Regardless of their size, all employers are required to pay NMW and NLW rates.
At the Equestrian Employers Association (EEA), we are working closely with the Government, to highlight issues with pay in the Equestrian industry and we are striving to help employers get it right when it comes to paying their staff.
A survey conducted by the EEA in March 2023 found that nearly half the respondents were not being paid in line with NMW legislation. Often, this was due to non-payment of overtime or false self-employment.
In April 2024 the National Minimum Wage increased and the new rates are set out below:
- National Living Wage (for those aged 21 and over) £11.44
- 18-20 Year Old Rate £8.60
- 16-17 Year Old Rate £6.40
- Apprentice Rate £6.40
The financial implications of not complying with NMW can be very costly. In addition to paying any money owed to the employee, employers could be issued fines of up to £20,000 and minimum fines of £100 per worker who is affected, even if they were underpaid by less.
Furthermore, each year, the Government publishes a list of businesses that have failed to pay their workers or employees the NMW so loss of professional reputation should also be considered as a potential consequence by those who fail to comply. In 2024 the list released by the Department of Business and Trade (DBT) included five equestrian businesses named for non-compliance of NMW.
To find out if you are employing the staff working on your yard correctly, especially for those that may be freelance or casual labour, please see our article Employment Status – Getting It Right.
The Equestrian Employers Association (EEA has been created with the specific purpose of supporting employers in our industry to comply with all aspects of employment legislation and to promote good employment practices. By joining the EEA, we can help you to protect your business.
If you would like help and support when it comes to employing your staff have a look at how we can help you today: