How to become a TV production chaperone

A TV production chaperone is responsible for ensuring the welfare and safety of minors, such as child actors, on production sets.

This role involves supervising minors both on and off set to make sure they are emotionally and physically supported and that all legal regulations regarding child labour are adhered to.

Two children sit on a wooded box surrounded by production crew on the set of Apple Tree House
Image: Apple Tree House - Five Apples Ltd

Essential skills for a TV production chaperone

A successful chaperone should have:

  • Communication skills: Ability to interact effectively with minors and production staff.
  • Patience and empathy: A caring approach to handle a child’s emotional needs.
  • Organisational skills: Strong abilities to manage schedules and tasks.

There are different legal requirements and licence guidelines in different parts of the UK.  

Scotland
You don't need a licence but you are required to have a Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) check.

England and Wales
Chaperones must be licensed by their Local Authority and have a current DBS. Cost and processing time will vary depending on the Local Authority.

The Local Authority will also specify the required training for obtaining a chaperone licence. Different employers may require additional training for particular jobs. For example, the BBC asks chaperones to complete the NSPCC Chaperone course.

Northern Ireland
Chaperones must be licensed by their Local Authority, have a current Access NI check and complete the NSPCC Chaperone course

How to become a TV production chaperone

Contact local authorities

  • Reach out to your Local Borough Council to ask for children’s services / children in employment team / child performance licensing. They will provide information on licensing requirements and fees.

Submit necessary documentation

  • Complete any required forms, such as a chaperone application and background check paperwork.
  • Provide proof of experience with children and references.

Complete required training

  • Child protection course: Courses on safeguarding or child protection may be mandatory, like the NSPCC Protecting Children in Entertainment course.

Obtain a licence

  • Many regions, including England, Wales and Northern Ireland, require a chaperone licence. Specific requirements vary by region (e.g. a DBS check in England or Access NI in Northern Ireland and no licence but a required check for Scotland).

Additional training

FAQs

Other resources

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