Chaperone Licensing (for children taking part in performances)

This article provides information on chaperones (for children taking part in performances).  It explains how to apply for the role of chaperone and the duties of the role.

All children must be supervised when performing. This can be done by a registered chaperone or by the child’s own parent(s).

A chaperone must hold a valid chaperone’s licence, issued by the local authority in which they live.

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Duties of the chaperone

The chaperone’s role includes the following:

  • safeguarding the child’s welfare
  • responsibility for the proper care and control of the child, including health, comfort, kind treatment and moral welfare
  • supervision of the child when at the place of performance, except while they are in the charge of an approved tutor
  • keeping a record of the times the child is on the set, i.e. rehearsals and performances
  • ensuring the child has the right breaks for rest and meals. Also ensuring the child is provided with nutritional food and any special diets for whatever reason are adhered to
  • making arrangements for the child to be escorted home, or medical attention given, in the event of illness
  • in the event of any contravention of the licence, or incident affecting the well-being of the child, the chaperone must inform us at the earliest opportunity

How to apply for a chaperone licence

To apply for a chaperone licence, contact the:

A number of checks will be completed to satisfy the local authority of the applicant’s suitability for the role. These will include:

  • the completion of a chaperone application form
  • an interview, conducted via Microsoft Teams
  • two satisfactory references
  • an Enhanced DBS check
  • right to work check

Please note that applicants are required to show original documents for the DBS and right to work check, in person, following their interview.  The original Enhanced DBS certificate must also be shown.  Following your interview, a time will be arranged for this in person check to take place.

Approval to act as a chaperone will only be granted if the local authority is fully satisfied that an applicant has demonstrated his or her suitability for the role. All chaperones will be offered child protection training.

The overall process usually takes 6-8 weeks, from the date of the interview, to complete.