Employing child performers in the UK is strictly regulated. Children under school leaving age require a performance licence from their local authority. Working hours, rest periods, and on-set chaperone requirements are legally mandated. Any earnings must be protected in a trust fund.

• Performance licence required from local authority for children of compulsory school age
• Licensed chaperone required at all times on set — cannot be a parent unless licensed
• Working hours limits: under 5s — max 5 hours/day; 5-12s — max 8 hours; 12-16s — max 9.5 hours
• Education: minimum 3 hours education per day must be provided on production days
• Trust funds: earnings must be paid into a trust — child cannot access until 18

Legal reference: Children and Young Persons Act 1963; Children (Performances and Activities) (England) Regulations 2014; Children Act 1989