How to check newspaper delivery employment rules

If you plan to employ young people under 16 for a newspaper delivery service, you must check and follow your local council's specific rules, known as bylaws. These regulations are a legal requirement designed to protect the safety and welfare of children, and they can vary significantly from one council area to another.

Why are there special rules?

Child employment laws exist to ensure that any work undertaken by school-age children does not harm their health, wellbeing, or education. For businesses, failing to comply with these local bylaws can lead to enforcement action and fines. The rules typically cover:

• The earliest and latest times a child can work.
• The maximum number of hours they can work on a school day, a Saturday, a Sunday, and during school holidays.
• The requirement to apply for a child employment permit (sometimes called a work permit) for each child you employ.
• Ensuring the work is 'light work' and does not place the child at risk.

How to check the rules

Follow these steps to find out what you need to do:

1. Find your local council: If you are unsure which council covers your business premises, you can find it on the GOV.UK website.
2. Search the council website: Once on your council's website, search for terms like "child employment", "children's work permits", or "employment of children bylaws". This will usually lead you to the correct department, which is often part of the education or children's services team.
3. Contact the council directly: If you cannot find the information online, call the council's general enquiries number and ask to be put through to the department that handles child employment licensing or permits. Explain your plans and ask for guidance on the application process and the specific rules you must follow.

Top Tip: When you speak to the council, have a list of questions ready. Ask about the application process for work permits, the exact working hour restrictions, and if you need to conduct any specific risk assessments for your delivery rounds. Keeping a good relationship with your local authority is key to running a smooth operation.