My Child Wants to Work in Theatre and TV – What are the Rules for Child Performers?

Child Performer Rules in the UK

Today’s kids seem to be obsessed with singers, actors, and any sort of celebrity. Many youngsters dream of gracing the stage or screen themselves, and they don’t always want to wait until they are older.

However, for mums considering this path for their children, it’s crucial to understand the intricate web of regulations surrounding child performers in the UK. It’s not as simple as a successful auditioning then walking into work.

These laws are in place to safeguard minors from exploitation and ensure their well-being takes precedence. So they may take some effort to understand, but it’s important that you do the research.

This guide aims to demystify the legal landscape, equipping Mums like you with the knowledge to make informed decisions for your child’s aspirations.

Licensing: The Prerequisite for Participation

Before your child can embark on any professional performance work, a crucial first step is obtaining a child performance licence.

This legal requirement applies to all children from birth until they reach the end of compulsory education, encompassing a wide range of activities such as films, television shows, radio broadcasts, commercials, theatre productions, modelling assignments, and even certain sporting events.

The licensing process involves submitting an application to the local authority where you, as the parent or guardian, pay council tax.

It’s essential to initiate this process well in advance, as some councils may require up to 21 days to process the application. However, many authorities strive to expedite the process, often issuing licences within 5-10 working days or even sooner, depending on their discretion.

To complete the application, you’ll need to provide various supporting documents, including:

  • Part 1 and Part 2 of the licence application form, completed by the client and yourself, respectively.
  • A self-certified medical declaration, signed by you as the parent or guardian.
  • A letter from the child’s school authorising their absence, if required for the performance.
  • Two recent passport-style photographs of your child.
  • A copy of your child’s birth certificate or passport.

It’s crucial to note that a separate licence is required for each performance or activity your child undertakes, as licences are job-specific and not transferable.

Safeguarding Measures: Ensuring Your Child’s Well-being

Child Actors Safeguarding

Beyond licensing, several additional safeguarding measures are in place to protect the interests and welfare of child performers.

One such measure is the requirement for certain crew members to undergo Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, particularly those who will have direct and prolonged contact with the child, such as makeup artists, costume assistants, and sound technicians.

Moreover, productions involving children are advised to provide a dedicated green room separate from the adult areas. This space serves as a safe haven for children to rest and engage in recreational activities during breaks, ensuring their comfort and protection.

Regulating Performance Hours and Breaks

Recognising the unique needs and vulnerabilities of young performers, the UK has established stringent regulations governing their working hours and mandatory breaks. These guidelines vary based on the child’s age and aim to strike a balance between their professional commitments and overall well-being.

For children aged 0-4, the maximum time at the performance venue is 5 hours, with a maximum of 2 hours dedicated to actual performance or rehearsal. Their attendance is restricted to the hours between 7 am and 10 pm, and they must have breaks of at least 15 minutes, with a mandatory 45-minute meal break if present for more than 4 consecutive hours.

Children aged 5-8 can attend the performance venue for up to 8 hours, with a maximum of 3 hours dedicated to performance or rehearsal. Their attendance is permitted between 7 am and 11 pm, and they must have at least one 45-minute meal break if present for more than 4 hours, as well as an additional 15-minute break.

For those aged 9 and above, the maximum time at the venue extends to 9.5 hours, with up to 5 hours allotted for performance or rehearsal. Their attendance is also permitted between 7 am and 11 pm, and they must have at least one 45-minute meal break and two additional 15-minute breaks if present for 8 hours or more.

It’s important to note that these regulations also stipulate a minimum break of 1.5 hours between consecutive performances, although this can be reduced to 45 minutes under certain conditions, such as when the performances occur at the same venue or involve minimal travel time.

Educational Provisions: Balancing Performance and Learning

Kids Working in TV

One of the paramount concerns for child performers is ensuring their educational development remains uncompromised. To address this, the regulations mandate specific educational provisions based on the child’s age and the duration of their involvement in the performance.

For children aged 5 and above, if their participation spans more than four consecutive weeks, they must receive a minimum of 3 hours of education per day, capped at 5 hours, and taught exclusively on school days. Additionally, if the performance period extends beyond four weeks, they must receive a minimum of 6 hours of education per week.

These educational requirements aim to prevent any significant disruption to the child’s academic progress and ensure they maintain a well-rounded development alongside their artistic pursuits.

Navigating the Complexities with Confidence

While the intricate web of regulations surrounding child performers in the UK may seem daunting at first, it’s essential to approach this journey with a well-informed mindset. You want the best for your child, so you will need to be aware of their rights at work.

By familiarising yourself with the licensing process, safeguarding measures, performance hour restrictions, mandatory breaks, and educational provisions, you can confidently guide your child through the exciting world of entertainment while prioritising their overall well-being.

Remember, these laws are in place to protect your child’s best interests, ensuring their talents can flourish in a safe and nurturing environment. Should you encounter any uncertainties or require further assistance, don’t hesitate to consult with industry professionals, child performance organisations, or your local authorities for guidance.

With the right knowledge and support, you can empower your child to pursue their dreams while navigating the legal landscape with confidence, creating a harmonious balance between their artistic ambitions and overall development.