A child taking part in a performance, which can include TV or filming, theatre, sporting activities or modeling, will require chaperoning.
Chaperones act in 'loco parentis' and should exercise the care which a good parent might be reasonably expected to give that child.
In order to apply for a chaperone licence the following forms should be completed and submitted to the local education authority whose area the prospective chaperone lives:
an application form together with 2 passport sized photographs
an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check - forms are supplied by post only - please contact us
These checks can take time to complete, please allow for this. Once all checks have been satisfactorily completed and a successful interview has taken place, a chaperone licence, a laminated ID card and a leaflet will be issued.
Responsibilities of a chaperone
Your first duty is to the child in your care. Whilst acting as a chaperone you must not engage in any activity that would interfere with the performance of the child's duties:
For the safeguard and welfare of the child, negotiating where necessary with the production staff
Alongside the performance licence holder, that regulations and any additional requirements issued by the child’s licensing authority are upheld at all times
For inspecting the licence to ensure that the child is licensed specifically for the performance, unless they fall within the exemption period
For the supervision of the child
To remain vigilant at all times regarding dangerous performances
To keep records relating to the child’s performances, rehearsals, breaks, meals and time spent waiting between performances
To keep records of any injuries or accidents to the child while in their care
To ensure that the child is not exploited by working too many hours resulting in the child’s general well-being or education suffering in the long term
To ensure the child receives education on all school days
To monitor the intervals between performances and the start and end times referring to the age of the child
To ensure that appropriate travel arrangements have been made
To represent the local education authority
To keep a list of all important contacts including your licensing authority, the child’s licensing authority, the local authority where the performance is taking place, the child’s agent and parent/guardian
Contact details
Education Welfare
Children's Services and Lifelong Learning
Civic Centre
Lampton Road
Hounslow
TW3 4DN
Tel: 020 8583 2769/2771
Fax: 020 8583 2777
Minicom: 020 8583 2618