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Emergency Protocols

Emergency Protocols

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If something feels wrong, unsafe or uncomfortable, trust your instincts and follow these steps.
 

Scenario A: Physical Safety / Immediate Danger

Examples: unsafe stunts, dangerous environments, unsafe equipment, a child being asked to perform a risky action without appropriate professional oversight.

  1. STOP: You or the Chaperone have the right to raise concerns and, where necessary, pause activity if a child’s safety or welfare is at risk.
  2. CONSULT: Speak to the Chaperone first. They are legally responsible for safeguarding the child while they are signed into production.
  3. CHECK THE SAFETY PLAN Ask: "Where is the risk assessment for this?" and "Why is the professional coordinator not present?"
  4. REFUSE IF NECESSARY: If the risk is not mitigated, remove the child from the situation. Safety overrules the contract. If risks are not properly managed or your child feels unsafe, remove them from the situation. Safety and safeguarding take priority over schedules, budgets or contracts.
  5. INFORM: Inform your LA if you have concerns about a production whilst it is happening so they can arrange for an inspection to take place.
     

Scenario B: Professional Boundary Breach

Examples: inappropriate language or behaviour towards a child, unwanted contact, unsafe social media behaviour, or confidentiality breaches such as ignoring “no photo” rules.

  1. DOCUMENT: Record what happened as soon as possible: what was said or done, who was present, date and time, any actions taken
  2. REPORT: Speak directly to the production’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or safeguarding contact.
  3. INFORM YOUR AGENT: Update your agent promptly. They can support you with professional communication and escalation where needed.
  4. Inform your LA: in case there is a Safeguarding issue.

 

Scenario C: Legal/Licensing Breach

Examples: missed breaks, working beyond legal hours, incorrect supervision arrangements, or concerns about licensing compliance.

  1. CHECK THE RECORDS: Approved  Chaperones should maintain a Chaperone Record. You can ask for clarification regarding hours, breaks and supervision arrangements.
  2. RAISE THE ISSUE: Inform the 2nd Assistant Director (2nd AD), production contact or relevant manager if you believe statutory limits have been reached.
  3. ESCALATE IF NEEDED: If concerns are ignored or legal requirements are not being followed, contact the Local Authority that issued the licence. They have safeguarding and enforcement responsibilities.
     

Scenario D: Medical Emergency

Examples: injury, allergic reaction, illness, panic attack, collapse or urgent medical concern.

  1. FIRST AID: Every set/theatre has a designated First Aider or Medic. Call for them immediately.
  2. GP LETTER: Ensure the chaperone / or production medic is aware of any allergies or conditions listed on your Access Rider.
  3. AGENT: Inform the agent as soon as practical so they can manage scheduling, contractual and insurance-related communication.
  4. Bring any medication your child needs and know where it is stored and who has access to it.

Emergency Contacts Directory

  • The Film & TV Charity (24/7 Support): 0800 054 0000
  • Equity Union (Safeguarding/Legal): 020 7379 6000
  • BAPAM (Medical/Mental Health): 020 7404 8444
  • NSPCC Whistleblowing: 0800 028 0285
  • NNCEE: Report a concern on their website https://www.nncee.org.uk/report-concerns