News and Insights

On 12 August 2025 the Social Security Minister announced that Jersey will reinstate the Trainee Minimum Wage Rate (“Trainee Rate”) effective 1 September 2025, reversing the Government’s decision in January 2024 to abolish it.

This change is a response to industry concerns raised by the Jersey Chamber of Commerce that removal of the Trainee Rate limited industry’s ability and willingness to offer training opportunities to islanders.

Jersey’s standard minimum wage is currently £13 per hour. The Trainee Rate will apply to employees on an approved training programme as follows:

Year 1 - £10.50 per hour
Year 2 - £11.75 per hour

After two years or upon completion of training, employees must receive at least the standard minimum wage. Current trainees employed before 1 September 2025 will continue to earn at least £13 per hour.

The reintroduction of a Trainee Rate is a welcome change. It should improve access to skilled employment on the island and enable trainees and apprentices to gain experience, build confidence and develop key industry skills.

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