POOR – Due Diligence Statement
Due Diligence Statement for Child Involvement in Poor at the Gate Theatre
The Gate Theatre is committed to the emotional, physical and mental safety and well-being of all participants, particularly minors. The following steps have been taken to ensure child actors are supported and protected throughout this production:
Script Review: All scripts were reviewed to identify and assess mature content. Scenes were evaluated for suitability, and adjustments made as needed.
Parental/Guardian Consent: Parents/guardians received full disclosure of the production’s nature and mature themes. Written, informed consent was obtained prior to participation.
Age-Appropriate Assignments: Children are cast only in age-appropriate roles and scenes. While the character may use some language that is not typically associated with a child, the child actor has been carefully prepared, and the context has been explained. When in the wings or near the stage, ear defenders are worn to avoid potentially harmful language, and positions have been carefully considered to shield minors from witnessing potentially harmful content. When not actively involved, the child actor is waiting with their chaperone in a designated private room away from show tannoys and video relays.
Supervision: An experienced chaperone is present with the child actor at all times during every rehearsal and performance.
Safeguarding: All adults interacting with minors have been briefed on child safeguarding best practices.
Garda Vetting: Gate Staff who work closely with the child actors have been Garda vetted in advance of the production, and a clear and robust contingency plan is in place for chaperone cover should it be required at any point throughout the production.
Wellbeing Monitoring: Separate to the chaperone, A designated child advocate regularly checks in with minors to ensure their emotional, physical and mental comfort and well-being.
Open Communication: Children and guardians are encouraged to have an open dialogue with those involved in every element of the production. A clear reporting pathway is in place to ensure any concerns raised are dealt with in a confidential, timely and sensitive manner.
Theatre License: Under the Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act, 1996; the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment has authorised the Gate to employ each minor involved in the production.
We confirm that these due diligence steps have been followed to ensure the safe and respectful inclusion of children in this production. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of child protection and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all young people involved in our productions.