Children in Entertainment

The Children and Young Persons Act 1933 (Sections 23 to 30) and The Children and Young Persons Act 1963 (Sections 37 to 44) are the primary pieces of legislation that cover child performance and underpin the licensing system. These Acts determine whether a licence is required and give local authorities the power of enforcement.

The Children (Performances and Activities) (England) Regulations 2014 sets out: requirements of licences and exemptions, arrangements that must be made to safeguard children and what the law requires of people responsible for organising performances and activities.

The person responsible for organising the production is responsible for submitting the Performance Licence.

If the performance runs for four days or less and no absence from school is required, you may be able to apply for an exemption. For more information and how to apply for an exemption from the licensing procedures click here.

In certain circumstances Dudley Council will consider issuing a Body of Persons Approval providing the organisation meets the criteria for application and the council is satisfied the organisations has clear, robust and well embodied policies for safeguarding children.

For more information and how to apply for a Body of Persons Approval click here.

Further details on how we process/share your personal information can be found in our Privacy Notice.

Information for Parents

If you are a parent with a child working in the entertainment industry, read our Guidance for Parents

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Guidance for Parents (PDF 152.02KB)

Information for Applicants

If you are an organiser of an event involving a child or young person, please read the below guide to child performance licensing. In addition, if you wish to attend a briefing on your responsibilities as the licence applicant and the role of a chaperone, please contact the Child Employment Officer.

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A Guide to Child Performance Licensing (PDF 498.36KB)