Child Performance Licences
Children of compulsory school age living in West Lothian who wish to take part in performances may need to apply for a licence (PDF, 64 KB)(opens new window). The performing industries include television, film, theatre, modelling and sporting activities. The new Children (Performances and Activities) (Scotland) Regulations 2014 came into force on 20th February 2015.
A licence is required if one or more of the following applies, except in cases where one of the exceptions noted further below applies:
- Your child takes part in a sport, or work as a model, where payment is made (other than to cover expenses).
- Your child takes part in a performance and a charge is made for admission (or otherwise) in relation to the performance.
- Your child takes part in a performance in licensed premises.
- Your child takes part in a performance which is to be broadcast, included in a radio or television programme service or recorded (by whatever means) with a view to its use in a broadcast, radio or television programme service or in a film intended for public exhibition.
A licence is not required for any child to take part in a performance if no payment is made (except to cover expenses) and one of the following apply:-
- Your child has not taken part in a performance on more than three days in the six months before the performance.
- The performance is given under arrangements made by the school.
Body of Persons Approval (for groups of children)
If children are not being paid for their performance, it may be possible for the organiser of the performance to apply for Body of Persons Approval instead of individual child performance licences. For more information see the Scottish Government's Getting it Right for Young Performers (opens new window) guidance. If you would like to apply for Body of Persons Approval instead of individual child performance licences, please e-mail us and we will help you to apply.
What is a Children's Entertainment Licence?
A children's entertainment licence is needed for each child who is taking part in a performance where a charge is made (for admission or otherwise) or any broadcast performance or any performance recorded (by whatever means) with a view to its use in a broadcast or in a film intended for public exhibition. The LEA issues licences for school age children to perform in the theatre or on television. Before granting a licence the Education Authority will liaise with the Headteacher of the child's school to ensure that the child's education will not suffer should that licence be granted.
