Petition · Department for Work and Pensions
Equalise the minimum wage for 18-20 year olds and 21+ workers
Closed
61 signatures
What the petition asks
Currently, young people aged 18-20 can be paid less than those aged 21 and above, despite often performing the same job tasks. We think this pay disparity undervalues their contribution to the workplace while also meaning young people might struggle to cover basic living expenses.
As the cost of living continues to rise, we think young people are being disproportionately impacted. Equalising the minimum wage for 18-20 year olds could help young people meet their financial needs without being held back by age-based pay. It could allow them to focus more on their education and career growth, rather than struggling to cover basic living expenses.
Timeline
| 31 Mar 2025 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 30 Sep 2025 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
61
Status
Closed
Department
Department for Work and Pensions
Opened
31 Mar 2025
Closed
30 Sep 2025
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 17 Aug 2026.