Licensing chaperones for children in entertainment

When a child is to take part in theatre, film, television, modelling or advertising work, this must be authorised by Tower Hamlets Education Directorate. One condition of authorisation is that a licensed chaperone should always be on hand when the child is working.

The Education Social Work Service carries out the authorising of chaperones. Chaperones are recruited and employed by agents and production companies in the entertainment industry, not by the council.

To become a chaperone, an individual must demonstrate that he or she would look after the child/children in his or her care in the way a good parent would be expected to. This means:

• Making sure the child is only working the hours allowed
• Ensuring that a child is getting proper meals, rest and recreation when not performing
• Calling a doctor if a child is unwell or injured and informing the parents and the local authority.

To find out if an applicant can carry out these duties satisfactorily, the Education Social Work Service will ask him or her to:

• Complete an application form
• Complete another form, which enables us to check if he/she has a police record
• Attend an interview with two officers of the Authority, one of who will be a qualified Social Worker.

How to apply to be a chaperone

If you are a resident of this borough and would like to be a chaperone, please download the application form and guidance notes (PDF - 130K).

Alternatively, you can request an application form by writing to:

Tower Hamlets Education Directorate
Pupil Services
3rd Floor, Mulberry Place
5 Clove Crescent
London E14 2BG

Tel: 020 7364 5006

Pid No: 631