Body of persons approval (BOPA)
A BOPA can be granted to an organisation for a single performance or for a series of performances within a specified time providing no payment is made to the child or to anyone else in respect of the child taking part in the performance and the child does not require absence from school.
You can find out further information by visiting NNCEE website.
Applying for a BOPA
Any type of organisation can apply for a BOPA i.e. amateur group, professional company, stage or broadcast providing there is no payment made (other than expenses) for the child to take part. However they will be required to meet certain criteria and to demonstrate that they have clear, robust and well embedded safeguarding policies and arrangements in place to protect children. This will inform the local authority decision and it is at its discretion whether to issue an approval.
Applying for and granting a BOPA will reduce the administrative burden for all parties, however the same principles apply in terms of safeguarding the child and ensuring there is proper provision to secure their health and kind treatment. There must be no reduction in safeguarding arrangements.
If you wish to apply for a Body of Persons Approval (BOPA), you are required to submit the following documentation via email and send to applicationsadmin@hillingdon.gov.uk.
Required documentation:
- a completed Body of Persons application form
- location/venue risk assessment
- child protection and safeguarding policy
- copies of valid chaperone licences (minimum ratio of 1 chaperone to 12 children must be maintained)
- a letter of permission from the school for each child, where applicable.
A children’s performance checklist is also available to download. This document is intended to assist you in recording the necessary details for all children involved in the performance.