From Wednesday 1 April, farm workers need to be paid a minimum of £8.72/hour, which is a rise of 51p/hour. This is equal to the UK Government’s 2020 National Living Wage hourly rate.

Apprentices who are on a Level 4 or 5 Modern Apprenticeship will also see a rise in their hourly rate to £5.46, an increase of 16p/hour.

Further changes include an increase to the dog allowance, additional sum, and minimum hourly overtime rate. There is also an increase to the accommodation offset rate for accommodation other than a house.

Helpline

Farmers unsure how the changes will impact their business are being encouraged to call the Scottish Agricultural Wages Board Helpline on 0300 244 9749.

NFU Scotland chief executive Scott Walker, a member of the SAWB, said: “With the crisis that we are living through just now, having good skilled people working on the farms across Scotland has never been more important. We are reminding the industry that from 1 April a new minimum rate of pay for agricultural workers comes into effect.

“The Government has increased the national living wage and the Wages Board have agreed the headline minimum rate of pay for agricultural workers will be in line with this rate at £8.72 per hour.

“For answers to any questions on the terms and conditions for agricultural worker, the union and Scottish Government SAWB helpline is here to support you.”