The Law on children working

General notes

The main piece of Legislation on this area is the Children and Young Persons Act 1933, but some is determined by by-laws – so the advice around seems to be, if you are unsure, to consult your local authority.

 

Age 13 -14 year old

The age which children may generally work is set at 14, this is covered in both Domestic and European Law – the exceptions to this rule appears to be in;

Taking part in sports

Advertising

Modelling

Plays, Films and TV roles

Doing odd jobs for parents or neighbours

Also babysitting – more information about babysitting below

Age 14, 15, 16 year old – who have not reached school leaving age

The Children and Young Persons Act 1933 states that 14 is the minimum age at which children can be employed – The following restrictions apply;

No child shall do work other than ‘light’ work

14 year olds may not work more than 5 hours on a Saturday or any other day – On a Sunday this is only 2 hours

On a school day children are not permitted to work during school hours, before 7am or after 7pm, for more than 2 hours a day – or more than 12 hours a week.

In school holidays children can work no more than 25hours a week

Children must have 2 consecutive non-school weeks a year without working.

Important to note is that the minimum wage does not apply to under 16s’

By-laws – many state that 13 or above can do certain jobs, for example a paper round. But you have to check out in your area.

 Age 15, 16 year olds

May work up to 8 hours on a weekday when they are not at school or on a Saturday

The minimum wage does apply for 16, 17 year olds which is currently set at £3.57 per hour

Babysitting Jobs

In England and Wales a child can babysit at any age, whether they are paid or not – But Note; if the child they are babysitting for is thought to be at risk, the child’s parents could be prosecuted or action could be taken to put their child into care.

If 16 or over, the 16 year old is old enough to be charged with a criminal offence, if it is shown that there was deliberate assault, ill-treatment or abandonment of the child in their care.

Lastly working in bars

If 16/17 the licensee must not employ them in a bar at a time when it is open for the sale /consumption of alcohol.

Remember these are just general notes and it is important that you get independent legal advice on any of the matters above and don’t forget to check your local by-laws.

Thanks

Emily Jones

Reference – http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/