Working with Chaperones

When you are not with your child during professional work, a local authority approved chaperone has legal responsibility for supporting and safeguarding their welfare

In Loco Parentis: This means "in place of the parent." From the moment you sign your child in until the moment you sign them out, the chaperone is the responsible adult. They must look after your child’s safety, comfort and treatment.
Even if you are with your child and there is a chaperone present they can and will overrule you if it is a matter of legality or safeguarding.
Professional Boundaries: It is important to build a respectful, collaborative relationship with your child’s chaperone. Chaperones are there to advocate for the child’s welfare and uphold safeguarding responsibilities. This may sometimes mean making decisions or raising concerns that affect schedules, rehearsals or production plans. Respecting their professional role helps create a safer working environment for everyone.
Authority to Pause or Raise Concerns: Parents and Licenced chaperones have safeguarding responsibilities and the authority to intervene if they believe a child is becoming overtired, unwell, distressed, or working in unsafe or unsuitable conditions. Where necessary, concerns may be escalated or work paused until the child’s welfare can be properly addressed.
Vetting and Credentials: You have the right to ask whether a chaperone is approved and which Local Authority issued their approval . Local authority approved chaperones are required to undergo safeguarding checks, including an Enhanced DBS check (with child barred checks), as part of the licensing process.