Any child or young person in Torbay up to School Year 11 needs authority from us to take part in any activity such as:

• photo/film-shoots
• modelling
• sports competitions
• performances with dance or drama Groups
• festivals
• theatre shows

We grant performance licences when we are satisfied with the child's fitness. We also need to know there are provisions in place for their:

• health
• kind treatment
• education
• safeguarding

With regards to employment, we have byelaws in place. These govern:

• the hours and days that children may work at different ages
• the types of work that they may do
• the statutory requirement for children to be approved for suitable work

When the application form is submitted by the potential employer it must be accompanied by a:

• copy of the current Child Safeguarding Policy
• a completed business risk assessment
• a Covid-19 Declaration

Under the byelaws, parents and/or employers can commit an offence by failing to comply with these regulations. This is punishable by a fine of up to £1,000.

If it is found that an employer has contravened H.M. Government or Local Authority Health and Safety Regulations the case may be heard in a Magistrates Court. The maximum fine can be up to £20,000.

If it goes to Crown Court, there will be an unlimited fine. This is subject to changes of current H.M. Government rates.