Agency4kidz Casting & Audition Safeguarding Policy

Should you at any point during the casting/audition process have any safeguarding concerns and the audition has been arranged by Agency4kidz, then you agree to notify us immediately.

It is becoming increasingly more common for castings and auditions to take place via online video such as Zoom. We will endeavour to safeguard and protect the children online as much as possible but due to the fact that this is a less controlled environment than the usual face to face castings, Agency4kidz have implemented these additional safeguarding measures:

Agency4kidz will aim to ensure for both face-to-face and online castings/auditions:

The online video meeting is as secure as possible while the sessions are in progress and that a licensed chaperone is present on the video meet prior to any children joining (unless the parent has been asked to be present) and remains until all children have left the meeting.
That the physical activities are safe and age appropriate to undertake at home without constant supervision.
That all castings are with reputable and legit companies.

Parents will ensure for both face-to-face and online castings/auditions:

That children have a suitable, quiet and safe space at home to partake in the sessions and children should not be in their bedrooms where possible.
That children are dressed appropriately for their audition- no nightwear, short skirts, crop tops etc. T-shirt and leggings/shorts are ideal, and dance leotards if a dance call.
That parents are at least within listening distance and, if in the room, they remain purely as an observer unless younger children need assistance.
They have ensured that the child’s first and last name are showing in the video meet in order for the casting director to quickly identify the child joining the group.
That the child’s camera stays on at all times, unless the casting company has asked otherwise and that the child knows how to mute/unmute their microphone.
That the child doesn’t have any virtual background displayed.
The parents understand that Agency4kidz cannot be responsible for children’s home internet connectivity or home internet security. Parents may wish to ensure they have a backup connection available (for example 4G phone hotspot).
Children under the age of 16 must be chaperoned by a parent/guardian to all auditions at all times and in the case of online the parent/guardian must be present until the video call is opened and the chaperone confirmed present.

The Legislation and Guidance that Supports this Policy

The Children’s Act 2004; The Police Act 1997; The Data Protection Act 1998; The Human Rights Act 1998; The Protection of Children Act 1999; The Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000.

Policy and Review

The directors will constantly review their policy, revising and enhancing it as necessary. In doing so they will look to the NSPCC and Arts Council of England for policy guidelines. They will seek to use best practice wherever that is to be found.

Policy updated 17/02/21 / Revision 1