Information on child employment for young people of school
age
Frequently asked questions
Are you age 13 – 16 and working or thinking of getting a
part time Job?
Many children work part-time doing paper
rounds or Saturday jobs. It can be good preparation for the future
and a helpful source of extra money. If you are thinking of getting
a part – time job please read this information first.
How old do I have to be to start
work?
You are allowed to do part-time work from your
13th birthday.
What counts as a job?
All young people who work or help in a trade
or occupation which is carried out for profit are considered to be
employed, even when they receive no payment for that assistance.
This includes helping parents with a family business.
Do I need a work permit?
Yes. If you are aged 13 to 16 and still of
statutory school age (until the last day of June in Year 11 of your
secondary education) your employer must, by law, apply for a work
permit from Tower Hamlets Local Authority. Without a work permit
you will not be insured against accidents.
Work permits are free.
Can I be stopped from
working?
Yes, for the following reasons:
- if you do not have a work permit
- if you are illegally employed in a job you
are not allowed to do
- if you are not attending school
regularly
- if you are continually late for school
- if your school work suffers
- if your health suffers and you are too tired
to learn
Find out more
We want you to be safe
So please
remember:
- Your employer must apply for a work permit
during the first week that you work.
- Your employer is responsible for your health,
safety and welfare and should complete a risk assessment with
you.
- Your employer has a responsibility to provide
any protective clothing needed.
- It is your responsibility to follow all
health and safety instructions and to be sensible and careful in
the work place.
- Talk to your parents about the work and the
pay.
- Do not do any job that could cause you harm
or injury.
How to contact us
The child employment team provides advice to employers and
families on the regulations for the employment of children.
Child Employment Team
Pupil Services
Mulberry Place
5 Clove Crescent
London
E14 2BG
Tel: 020 7364 5006
Fax: 020 7364 4311
Email: pupil.services@towerhamlets.gov.uk