Am I Classed as an Employee If They Don't Pay My Wage?

Hello and thank you for your interesting question.

It is important to remember that the UK Government is keen to support apprenticeships, for 16 – 18 year old especially, so you have the law on your side.

In the current economic situation, there are many employment situations that are rewriting the rules, or certainly requiring some new rules to be written. I would suggest that your situation is not unusual and, rather like car plant workers accepting shorter working weeks instead of losing their jobs, you are likely to not be alone.

Excellent Building Blocks

What is key here is that you want to work, you have found a company that will take you on and you have family support. These are excellent building blocks for a solid future and, without a little bit of realistic leeway, you cold easily be on the dole instead, which is neither good for you nor the future of the country.

Even though apprenticeships are a crucial part of the Government’s plans for maintaining its focus on full time education for all up to the age of 18, which it considers apprenticeships to include, there is surprisingly little rules and regulations.

In 2008, workers unions complained that apprentices were being taking advantage of by unscrupulous employers and stated that apprentices should be entitled to the minimum wage.

Hard for All Employers

However, this is not law and may not ever be, especially with the current economic climate making it harder for employers to pay any staff, let alone people that they are not legally obliged to.

Many companies do not pay apprentices, although this is not all together fair, and they should pay the minimum wage, according to the Government guidelines.

For you, your mother and the new company to be totally above board, it would be a good idea for you to be paid the appropriate sum as stated above. The company can sign the form as required stating that you are an employee and you remain an apprentice for your college course. Be aware that, this year, some rules are being rewritten as the recession takes hold, so be prepared to argue your case if necessary.