Children in entertainment

Performance licence

A child will need a licence if they're of school age and taking part in:

• films, plays, concerts or other public performances that the audience pays to see, or that take place on licensed premises 

• any sporting events or modelling assignments where the child is paid

The person in charge of running the event must apply to us for a child performance licence. To get a licence, send an email or call 0161 603 4350.

The council will only agree to a licence if all conditions are met and information is provided. The child's school can also stop the licence being issued if they think it will affect the child's education, health or welfare.

Child Performance Licence

A Child Performance Licence is required for most children of compulsory school age who are taking part in:

• films, television productions or commercials

• plays, concerts, dance shows or other public performances

• performances held on licensed premises

• paid sporting events

• paid modelling assignments

The person responsible for organising the performance or activity must apply for the licence before the child takes part.

A licence will only be granted where all legal requirements have been met and the required supporting information has been provided. The child's school may object to the application if it considers that participation could have a negative impact on the child's education, health or welfare.

To apply for a Child Performance Licence, please complete the online application form using the link below.

Child Performance Licence Application

If you have any questions about the application process, need assistance completing the form, or would like to discuss your application before submitting it, please contact the Child Employment and Entertainment Team:

• Email: childemployment@salford.gov.uk

• Telephone: 0161 603 4350

We are happy to provide advice and guidance before you submit your application.

Body of Persons Licence applications

Please note that as of the 31 August 2016 all Body of Persons Applications will have to include Local Authority Approved Chaperones.

To apply for a Body of Persons approval please complete the application (below) and email with supporting documents to childemployment@salford.gov.uk.

For more information about this or if you wish to discuss, please email childemployment@salford.gov.uk.

Child supervision

If the child won’t be with their parent, school teacher or home tutor, they must be supervised by a chaperone approved by the council. Chaperones can apply to us for approval by completing an application form.

How to apply to become an approved chaperone

Legal information

The need for a performance licence and chaperone approval comes under the Children and Young Persons Act 1963 and Children (Performances and Activities)(England) Regulations 2014.

This page was last updated on 20 August 2026