Are you paying your interns at least the National Minimum Wage?
If you are considering hiring an intern, it’s important to find out whether they are entitled to be paid the National Minimum Wage (NMW).
Whether an intern should be paid NMW depends on their worker status. If they are classified as a worker for NMW purposes, they are entitled to at least the NMW for the hours they have worked during their internship.
You can find information on GOV.UK to help you work out whether an intern would be classified as a worker for NMW purposes.
Correcting NMW underpayments
If you think you’ve made a mistake you need to put things right. Here’s how you can do it:
- Change the working practices going forward.
- Calculate arrears: determine the arrears due to workers using current NMW rates.
- Pay arrears: ensure the arrears are paid back to the workers. For any affected ex workers, you must make all reasonable attempts to contact them.
If you have identified and paid arrears for underpayment of minimum wage, then there is an option to inform HMRC. You can do this by requesting a form by emailing voluntarydeclaration.nmw@hmrc.gov.uk.
Further Guidance and Resources
Yorkshire manufacturer pioneers AI adoption as first in North Yorkshire to secure Made Smarter grant funding
Tadweld, a North-Yorkshire based steelwork manufacturer Tadcaster-based engineering and has become the first in its region to commence an artificial intelligence project through Made Smarter Yorkshire & Humber’s Intensive Technical Support programme.
York Business Festival
York St John University is proud to announce a packed programme for York Business Festival this October. Taking place across two days, attendees gain direct access to the expertise of academics and researchers from York Business School and the wider University as well as a host of invited speakers and facilitators.
Brew York invests in a more sustainable future
When rising CO2 prices began putting pressure on Brew York, the team started looking for a more sustainable way to operate and reduce their reliance on external CO2 supplies. With support from City of York Council and the Growth Hub, Brew York secured grant funding towards new nitrogen generation technology, through the Business Sustainability Programme.
Apprenticeship funding scheme opens new opportunities for employers in York and North Yorkshire
Employers across York and North Yorkshire are invited to take advantage of a new Apprenticeship Levy Transfer Scheme launched by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, creating new opportunities to invest in skills and support long-term business growth.
Innovation Supper: Meet the Dragons
Emerging entrepreneurs from across York and North Yorkshire will be pitching their business ideas to an engaged audience of like-minded business professionals at next month’s Innovation Supper. A panel of experienced business professionals are set to provide a wealth of business knowledge and insight, asking questions and offering invaluable feedback to those taking the stage.
Fully funded workplace training and development for North Yorkshire employers
Employers across North Yorkshire can now access free learning and development opportunities designed to help create more inclusive, supportive and productive workplaces. Available through the Get Britain Working Economic Inactivity Trailblazer, the programme from North Yorkshire Council gives employers practical support to develop workplace cultures where employees feel valued, supported and able to thrive in work.
Second registration window now open for tax advisers
Registration is now open for tax advisers in the second phase of the new Modernising and Mandating Tax Adviser Registration (MMTAR) rollout. This applies to any advisers with Self Assessment or Corporation Tax accounts, but without an agent services account (ASA). They have until 18 November 2026 to register.
Sausage maker uses technology to cut energy costs and power future growth
HECK, based in Bedale, produces premium sausages, burgers, mince and meatballs. The family-firm installed a digital Energy Management System (EMS) with support from Made Smarter Yorkshire after soaring electricity prices almost tripled its energy bills.
North Yorkshire brewery taps into technology to fuel growth
Founded in 2013 as a small-batch microbrewery, Harrogate Brewing Company was acquired by Joe and Julie Joyce in 2020 with ambitions to build a larger, more resilient business that could create a long-term future for their family. Just weeks later, the Covid-19 pandemic brought the hospitality industry to a standstill. With its pub customers disappearing almost overnight, the family adapted by launching online sales, home deliveries and a taproom.
New employers: what you need to know about the National Minimum Wage
Taking on your first workers is a milestone moment for any new business. It’s important to pay your workers correctly from day one, as this helps build trust, demonstrates your commitment to treating workers fairly, and lays the foundations for a positive and productive working relationship.
Boost your career with adult learning
A wide range of subjects are available through the Adult Skills Fund, Free Courses for Jobs and Skills Bootcamps, all delivered by expert providers commissioned by the Combined Authority.
Innovation Supper October 2026: Apply to pitch
Join us for a relaxed evening with a light supper and plenty of inspiration, where you’ll have the chance to step into the spotlight and pitch your business idea to win seed funding. Prior to the pitching, you’ll be provided expert pitch training delivered by York St John, so you’re fully prepared to deliver your pitch with confidence. Whether you’re just starting out or already up and running, you’re invited to get involved.