Important guidance for parents, clients and performers regarding working hours, breaks, licensing requirements and regulations for child performances in the UK.
| AGE 0-4 | AGE 5-8 | AGE 9 & OVER | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum number of hours at place of performance or rehearsal | 5 hours | 8 hours | 9.5 hours |
| Earliest and latest permitted times | 7am to 10pm | 7am to 11pm | 7am to 11pm |
| Maximum continuous performance or rehearsal | 30 minutes | 2.5 hours | 2.5 hours |
| Maximum total hours of performance or rehearsal | 2 hours | 3 hours | 5 hours |
| Minimum intervals for meals and rest | Any breaks must be a minimum of 15 minutes. If present for more than 4 hours, breaks must include at least one 45 minute meal break. | If present for more than 4 hours but less than 8 hours, performers must have one 45 minute meal break and at least one 15 minute break. | If present for more than 4 hours but less than 8 hours, performers must have one 45 minute meal break and at least one 15 minute break. |
| Education | N/A | 3 hours per day (maximum 5 hours per day). 15 hours per week taught only on school days. | 3 hours per day (maximum 5 hours per day). 15 hours per week taught only on school days. |
| Minimum break between performances | 1 hour 30 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Maximum consecutive days | 6 days | 6 days | 6 days |
Local authorities may further restrict permitted hours, breaks and conditions where required in the best interests of the child performer.
A child performance licence is required for all working children in the entertainment industry for children of compulsory school age or younger.
You will only require a licence when your child is confirmed for a job. A licence is valid for one job only and the process needs to be repeated each time your child is booked for work.
Current legislation for licence applications requires 21 days notice, although some councils may process applications within 5–10 working days depending on circumstances.
Many required documents can be uploaded to your agency profile during registration, making future licence applications faster and easier.
Do not worry about obtaining a child performance licence — our agency assists parents and clients throughout the process.
Apply for a child performance licence:
https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-child-performance-licence
Child performance guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/child-employment/performance-licences-for-children
Official legislation:
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2014/3309/contents/made
National Network for Child Employment & Entertainment:
http://www.nncee.org.uk
Government guidance on child performances:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/child-performance-and-activities-licensing-legislation
Baby and Child Model Agency provides a complete licence processing service on behalf of parents, performers and clients.
Please contact our team if you require assistance or further guidance regarding licences or child performance regulations.
