My child has been offered a job. What do we do next?
The employer needs to obtain a permit for the employment of
children from the local education authority in whose area the
employment takes place. An application form can be obtained
from schools, or you can download the
form. This should be completed and then signed by the parent,
headteacher and employer and sent back to:
Young People's Employment Adviser, 8-19 Service,
Peterborough City Council, Ground Floor, Town Hall, Bridge Street,
Peterborough PE1 1QT
What about risk assessments?
All employers have to carry out risk assessments but there are
special rules where young people are employed. Risks to young
people under 18 must be assessed taking into account inexperience,
lack of awareness and the immaturity of young people. Control
measures must be introduced to eliminate or control any risks so
far as is reasonably practicable. The findings of the risk
assessment must be communicated to the parents but not necessarily
in writing.
When will I hear about the application?
We aim to respond within 10 working days, providing the form has
been filled out correctly and signed. If it is accepted, we
will send the permit to the employer who must keep it in the
workplace, and a copy to the parent/carer. If the application
is not accepted, the officer will write to the employer and parent
to explain why it cannot be issued.
Can my child's permit be withdrawn?
We have the right to withdraw a permit if:
- We feel a child’s part-time work appears to be stopping him or
her from getting the maximum benefit from school or from attending
regularly.
- The local consultant community paediatrician feels it is
harming his/her health and/or physical development.
- The actual work varies from the hours or job description stated
on the application form.
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