Children who perform must be supervised at all times, either by their parent/carer or by an approved chaperone. Chaperones must be registered with the local authority in which they live.
Chaperones act in place of a parent/carer for the child under their care when they are licensed to perform. A chaperone is expected to exercise the same care and control as a good parent might reasonably be expected to give, with a view to securing the child's health, wellbeing and comfort. Parent/carers may only supervise their own child, unless they are also registered as a chaperone.
To apply for a chaperone licence, you must:
- provide details of 2 referees
- 1 referee must be known to you in a professional capacity
- neither referee can be a spouse or relative
- attend an informal interview
- complete a DBS check
Apply for a chaperone licence:
Child chaperone application form
If you're unable to complete the child chaperone application form online, contact Business Support School Services for assistance on email: businesssupportschoolservices@york.gov.uk.
DBS checks for chaperones
We only issue chaperone licences to Enhanced (Child Workforce) Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checked applicants; licences are valid for 3 years.
Please note the following in relation to your DBS check:
- if you don't already have an Enhanced DBS certificate, you'll need to make us aware of this and we'll set up a new DBS application for you through KnowYourPeople; please be aware that there is a fee for this
- if you're competing a new DBS you'll be required to attend an appointment at West Offices; appointments are only available during normal working hours
- if you have an Enhanced Child Workforce DBS certificate and have registered for the DBS update service, you'll need to give us permission to check your certificate online by completing the Update Service form and providing us a scan or photo of your original certificate
Renewing a chaperone licence
You must apply for a renewal at least 1 month before your existing licence expiry date.
You'll need to complete a chaperone renewal form and attend an informal interview.
Request a renewal form by contacting us on email: businesssupportschoolservices@york.gov.uk.
If you don't have an Enhanced Child Workforce DBS certificate that's registered on the DBS update service, you'll be required to complete a new DBS.