of 20,000 signatures

To Robert Halfon, Minister of State for Skills, Apprenticeships and Higher Education

Apprenticeships are a great way for young people to gain skills, training, and employment opportunities without running up huge student debt. But, the current wage for apprentices is only £5.28 per hour, which is significantly lower than the National Minimum Wage of £7.49 per hour that rises to £10.18 per hour when you reach 21 years of age.

This wage disparity is unfair for apprentices and makes them practically unliveable as it does not reflect the cost of living and basic expenses such as rent and food. It places an unnecessary financial burden on apprentices and undermines the value of apprenticeships as a sensible option for young people to fill much needed job vacancies in this country!

Petition text

We call on the government to take action and increase the wage for apprentices to 80% of the National Minimum Wage (considering that apprentices often have one study day per week).

By increasing apprentice wages, the government can demonstrate its commitment to supporting the next generation of workers, promoting fair labour practices, and strengthening the overall workforce in the UK. We urge the government to take this important step towards creating a more sustainable apprenticeship system that benefits both apprentices and the broader economy.

6 May 2023
Help get this petition in front of the government
The impossibly low apprentice wage (just over £5/hour) means young people are leaving their training to look for a minimum wage job elsewhere. Please keep sharing so we can press the government and Low Pay board to end this disparity and give apprentices at least 80of the national minimum wage.

5 Apr 2023
Thank you - please keep sharing!
Thank you so much for all your signatures and shares, which are really appreciated. Please can I ask you to keep sharing among friends and contacts? The more names we can get, the better! Thank you again and best wishes.

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