Child Performers Permit Information
What constitutes a child performer?Anyone under the age of 17 who performs as an actor, extra, musician, singer, dancer, entertainer, or a model promoting an idea or service.Why do child performers need a permit?The permit system gives parents/guardians, the talent agency, and the Employment Standards Branch a chance to make sure the work is done in socially appropriate settings, with the right supervision, and does not affect the health, safety or wellbeing of the child.The permit system also allows the Province to confirm the agency is licensed, and to introduce the "Code of Conduct for Working with Child Performers" that must be followed. How do I apply for a Child Performer Permit?An application form can be found on the web site at www.manitoba.ca/labour/standards/forms.html or by contacting the Employment Standards Branch. The completed form can be taken, mailed, or faxed to the Employment Standards Branch office.The Child Performer Permit application will not proceed unless the talent agency promoting the child is licensed with Employment Standards. How much does a Child Performer Permit cost?There is no fee for a Child Performer Permit. Permits are given one time per child, per agency and are valid as long as the child works with that agency (or until the child turns 17).When do I apply for a child performer permit?Child performers must have approval from the Employment Standards Branch before they can be promoted by a talent agency. Once an agency decides it will promote a child, the application can be filled out. When the application has been approved the applicant and talent agency are each mailed a copy of the permit and work may begin.What kind of information is required to apply for child performer permit?The following information is required:
Are there restrictions for a child performer?The Child Performer Permit will have terms and conditions. Some will be similar to the protections for young workers under the Employment Standards Code.For example:
What is the purpose of the "Code of Conduct for Working with Child Performers"?The code of conduct was developed by the Canadian Centre for Child Protection and law enforcement officials who are experts in issues related to the exploitation of children. It outlines the shared responsibility between parents/guardians and agencies that work with child performers to protect children from those who see the industry as a way to get access to children for the purpose of exploitation.The code of conduct will be included with the licences and Child Performer Permits along with information on the signs of abuse and what to do if you suspect that abuse may be occurring. Anyone seeking a licence to work with child performers will be required to follow the code of conduct. What is required by the "Code of Conduct for Working with Child Performers"?Talent agencies promoting child performers must conduct themselves appropriately and take seriously their obligation to ensure all people working with children act safely and appropriately.Agencies cannot substitute for a parent's or guardian's ability to watch their children, and their children's work environment, for signs of abuse or misconduct. Parents/guardians must be familiar with the code of conduct and the activities of their children who work as performers. They need to understand the risk of abuse and they must be present at the job location or readily available to their children when they are working as performers. Parents/guardians must be prepared to take action in reporting anyone who does not follow the code. For more information read the Code of Conduct for Working with Child Performers and Child Sexual Abuse: it is your business. When can work with a child performer begin?A recruiter and a talent agency must first receive their licence. A child performer may start work with a licensed agency once he or she receives the Child Performer Permit.What happens to the permit if a child performer changes agencies?Permits are given one time per child, per agency and are valid as long as the child works with that talent agency (or until the child turns 17). If the agency changes, the child and the new agency need a new permit.How are child performers protected?The Employment Standards Branch will conduct inspections and investigations and background checks to make sure the people working with child performers are reputable, conduct themselves appropriately, and take seriously their obligation to ensure child safety.If it is discovered a person or business contravened the legislation, or did not abide by the "Code of Conduct for Working with Child Performers", the Director of Employment Standards has the ability to refuse, suspend or revoke a licence or permit, and will take whatever action is necessary to protect a child's interest. What can parents/guardians do to protect their child from exploitation in the talent industry?Unscrupulous people prey on children with the promise of glamorous lifestyles, travel and money. If your child is approached in a mall, invited to a photo-shoot, or told at a talent search fair that they have the potential to become the next top model, you should be very cautious. The age of models has been decreasing steadily making these children (star-struck and hopeful) extremely vulnerable to people who use the industry to gain access to children.
Who do I contact to report suspicion of abuse or misconduct?If you have suspicion, based on reasonable grounds, to believe a child is in need of protection call 1-866-345-9241.For more information contact the Employment Standards Branch:
This is a general overview and the information used is subject to change. For detailed information, please refer to current legislation including The Employment Standards Code and The Worker Recruitment and Protection Act, or contact the Employment Standards Branch to ask for advice. Date Published: June 25, 2009 |
