Apply for a child employment permit

Employers are required by law to register any child of compulsory school age who is working for them (paid or unpaid) with the local authority.

Guidance for employers

Employer’s role in the application process

Apply before the child starts work. If employment has already started, apply within 1 week of their start date.

You are responsible for:

  • Completing and submitting the application
  • Carrying out a Health and Safety risk assessment specific to the child’s work (The Health and Safety (Young Persons) Regulations 1997)
  • Informing parents or carers of risks identified and the measures in place
  • Confirming parental consent and school confirmation
  • Reviewing all information and submitting the full application to the local authority
  • Ensuring all required documents are included

Employer’s legal responsibilities

You must:

Leicestershire byelaws on the employment of children PDF, 101.58 KB Opens new window

Employer’s safeguarding responsibilities

You must:

  • Take responsibility for the child’s welfare, health and safety at work
  • Undertake a full risk assessment (taking into account the young person’s experience and age) and inform parents or carers of any risks identified and the measures in place
  • Provide clothing, footwear and equipment appropriate for the job
  • Ensure the child is safe while working
  • Ensure the work does not expose the child to harm or risk

Illegal employment

It is illegal to employ a child without a valid permit. We can take legal action against you, and you could be prosecuted, if you:

  • Do not get an employment permit for children of school age
  • Employ children in a job or place of work they are not allowed to work in
  • Employ children to work outside the hours allowed

Failure to get a permit may result in a fine of up to £1,000 for employing a child illegally.

Work experience

Work experience gives young people the opportunity to gain practical skills and experience of the workplace as part of their education. 

It is important to understand that:

  • Work experience for young people is organised by schools and academies
  • Work experience is covered by different legislation
  • Work experience does not come under the remit of the Child Performance and Employment Team

If a child wishes to continue working after the completion of a work experience placement, then they will be subject to the normal child employment regulations and need a child employment permit.