In 1996 it became a legal requirement under The Activity Centres (Young Persons' Safety) Act 1995 for providers of certain adventure activities to undergo inspection of their safety management systems and become licensed.

This licensing scheme only applies to those who offer activities to young people under the age of 18 years and who operate these activities in a commercial manner.

Generally, licensing only applies to these activities when they are done in remote or isolated environments. For example, climbing on natural terrain requires a licence, climbing on a purpose built climbing wall does not.

A licence is not required for:

• Voluntary associations offering activities to their members, (e.g. scout groups, local canoe clubs, etc.)

• Schools and colleges offering activities only to their own pupils or students.

• Activities where youngsters are each accompanied by their parent or legally appointed guardian. (Does not include teacher or youth leader).

The licensable activities include the following:

On 1st October 1997 it became a legal requirement that only licensed activity providers will be able to offer activities as described above.

If you have any further questions about the Licensing Scheme you can call The Adventure Activities Licensing Authority on 029 2075 5715, we will be happy to help.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

Licenses are issued when our inspectors are assured that the provider's management of safety is satisfactory. Inspection does not include standards of accommodation or service.

The Licensing Authority will gladly check the status of centres identified by the enquirer but does not provide a tourist information service.

More information about the Licensing Scheme is available in the Health and Safety publication entitled "Guidance to the Licensing Authority on The Adventure Activities Licensing Regulations 1996" (available from HSE Books Tel: 01787 881165 or good booksellers, price £9.00).