Are you being paid properly?

Being British, the topic of money feels like a tricky one, but it shouldn’t – because it’s the law!

In April, at the beginning of the new tax year, the minimum wage often rises. This year (2024) is a particularly important year because the National Living Wage (which previously applied to anyone 23 years and over) has been lowered to include workers who are 21 years old and over.

This means that if you are 21 or 22 years old, and getting the minimum wage for your age, you will be entitled to a pay rise of £1.26 per hour, which over a 40 hour working week is an additional £50.40.

Whilst that might not sounds like a huge amount – over the year it really adds up and will give an employee an extra £2,620.80 (gross, i.e. what you are paid before taxes).

No matter what your age, from 1^st April your employer should update your monthly pay accordingly – although it’s important to remember that if you already receive above the new National Minimum Wage for your age then you are not entitled to a pay rise.

The complex part…

The water can be muddied when working with horses because lots of positions include additional benefits such as accommodation and livery for your horse.

But did you know that from 1^st April 2024 your employer is only allowed to deduct a maximum of £69.93 a week from your wages.

Overtime

This can be another tricky subject when working with horses and longer than normal hours during busy times of the year are often expected as part of the job.

Your employer can choose to either pay you your hourly rate for those extra hours (your standard hours will be written in your statement of terms/contract), or they can give you time off in lieu.

This means that for every additional hour you work, you get an hour off your normal working day that you are still paid for. Quite often this is easier for your employer to manage, especially during busy times, as time off in lieu can be carried to later in the year, but it is important for you both to keep a record of these additional hours. 

An uncomfortable conversation

If you have questions about your employment you can always refer to your written contract. It is the law that you are issued with a written statement of terms either before or on the day of the start of your employment.

Remember that if you don’t have one it is not too late to ask, this is really important as it protects both you and your employer. 

If you find yourself needing to discuss something about your employment then ask to arrange a time for a meeting somewhere quiet, where you know neither of you will be distracted (the yard tack room is not always ideal!).

Make a note of the key points you want to discuss and tell your employer your concerns. Most employers will be glad of the opportunity to talk things through and explain their workings out.

It’s always worth remembering; the National Minimum Wage, having a written contract, or time off is not a luxury it is the law and it’s there for a reason.

If you have any concerns about your employment if you are in an Equine Elite Recruitment filled position please get in touch with our team, otherwise the team at the British Grooms Association have a vast amount of information and support should you need more help.