Chaperone licence

A child taking part in a performance, which can include TV or filming, theatre, sporting activities or modelling, will require chaperoning.

If mum, dad or guardian won't be accompanying the child, someone with a chaperone licence has to be with them at all times, making sure they are safe, healthy and happy - just as a parent would.

Need a licence? Apply now.

It takes a while for the Local Education Authority (LEA) to check everything on the application before they issue the licence.

Please make sure you apply for a licence at least three months before it is needed.

How to apply

Applying for a chaperone licence usually takes about three months. However, the criminal records check can take longer than expected, so do start the process as soon as you can.

1. Request and complete the forms

You need to complete two forms:

• the licence application form and,
• the Criminal Records Bureau Disclosure Form.

Call, email or write to us with a request and we will send them to you as soon as possible.

You can also download the licence application form, however we cannot provide the Disclosure Form as it is on paper only.

2. Send the forms and three passport-sized photos

to the Child Employment Officer at the Attendance Advisory Service

3. Gather proof of identity for informal interview

The Child Employment Officer will contact you to come in for an interview.

The officer will want to see some proof of identity such as passport, utility bills or birth certificate (plus marriage or civil partnership certificate in case of a change of name), so make sure you have these to hand.

4. Wait and train

Then you need to be patient while the Criminal Records Bureau checks the details on your Disclosure form. The whole process can take up to approximately three months.

Chaperone approval is subject to undertaking compulsory Child Protection Training.

5. Get your licence

Once the CRB has cleared you, we can issue the licence. It is valid for three years.

After three years are up, you will need to start the process again to get a new licence.