YOUNG people who want part-time jobs are being urged to find out what the rules of their employment are.

Children must be 13 years old to get a part-time job, and employers must get a work permit from the Education Welfare Service if they are taking on someone of compulsory school age.

A permit is not needed for carrying out odd jobs at home or for neighbours, babysitting or work experience.

If a young person does get a job, there are limits on the amount of time they can work during the week, at weekends and during the holidays, depending on their age.

Working is banned during study leave or if a pupil is absent from school because of illness. Thirteen-year-olds are banned from doing some jobs but work they can do includes delivering newspapers, shop work and office work. All children are banned from carrying out certain jobs, including collecting money or selling door-to-door, carrying out a milk delivery or telesales.

A leaflet has been produced by Darlington Borough Council explaining the law surrounding children working. For details, call (01325) 388836.