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Body of Persons Approval (BOPA)

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Body of Persons Approval (BOPA)

A Body of Persons Approval (BOPA) is permission for organisations to include children in a performance. It outlines the safeguarding measures in place for the children taking part. A BOPA application should be made to the local authority where the performance is taking place. 

If an organisation has a BOPA, they do not need a performance licence for each child if: 

  • no payment is made for any child to take part 

  • the children will not be absent from school or have permission from their schools to be absent for the performance 

If you’re an organisation with multiple performances across multiple local authorities, you can apply for a national BOPA. For performances in England, email [email protected]. For performances in Wales, email [email protected]. For Northern Ireland, email [email protected]. For Scotland email [email protected]. 

Before you apply 

You need to apply for the licence at least 21 working days before you need it. 

You’ll be asked for the details of: 

  • your organisation 

  • the performance 

  • The number of children taking part 

  • the chaperones and/or supervising adults of the children 

  • safeguarding arrangements for the children 

How to apply 

You need to submit these 3 application forms at least 21 working days before you need the BOPA to start: 

Email the completed forms to [email protected]. Get in touch using the same email if you need advice for filling the forms in. 

What happens next 

We aim to process applications within 21 working days. If we need more details from you, we’ll be in touch and your application may take longer to process. If your application is approved, you’ll receive an email from us with the approval and other important information. 

We’ll keep records of approved applications for up to 12 months after the licence expiry date. If there are safeguarding concerns, we’ll keep the records for as long as necessary. 

Reporting a concern 

If you have any concerns about the welfare of a child during the performance or activities: 

  • contact the police 

All reports will be treated in confidence and fully investigated.