PASIC Easter Party at the Crowne Plaza, Nottingham

We had such a brilliant time at this year’s PASIC Easter Party, held at the Crowne Plaza in Nottingham – what a fantastic afternoon!

PASIC is a wonderful East Midlands charity that supports families of children and young people with cancer. They do amazing work all year round, and it’s always a pleasure to be involved in their events. The atmosphere was lovely, and it was clear how much effort had gone into making it a special day for the families.

We were there providing lots of fun, including a disco, party games, and entertainment – and of course, some of our most popular party characters came along too! We had Alice in Wonderland, the Mad Hatter, the White Rabbit, Glinda, and Ariel.

It was a proper family affair as well – my daughter Isobel joined us as Alice, and her boyfriend took on the role of the Mad Hatter (they were both fab!). It was lovely to see the kids so engaged with the characters, joining in the games, and dancing away.

We also had the pleasure of working alongside the lovely Dale from the Heroes Bringing Hope Foundation, as well as the brilliant team from the East Midlands Garrison, who always add something special to events like this.

We’re already looking forward to seeing everyone again at Christmas!

If you’re planning a party or special event and want to bring it to life with professional entertainment and character appearances, we’d love to help.

Feel free to contact us:
🌐 www.absolutelyamazingparties.co.uk
📩 hello@absolutelyamazingparties.co.uk
☎️ 07795 342639
📍 Based in Nottingham – covering the East Midlands

A DBS Check is Not Legally Required for Children’s Party Entertainers

A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is not legally required for entertainers at children’s parties because this role does not fall under the definition of “regulated activity” as outlined in UK safeguarding legislation.

Why DBS is Not Required
Definition of Regulated Activity: The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 defines regulated activity with children as work that involves:

• Unsupervised teaching, training, or instructing.
• Caregiving or supervising children regularly.
• Driving children as part of a formal arrangement.

Entertaining at children’s parties is not included because it does not involve unsupervised or regular care. Entertainers at parties are always in the presence of parents or guardians, meaning it is not considered regulated activity.

Legal Restrictions on DBS Requests: Under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 and Police Act 1997, employers can only request DBS checks for roles that meet regulated activity criteria. Asking for a DBS check for an unregulated role is unlawful, breaching both data protection laws and individual rights.

Misinformation and Stigma: Insisting on DBS checks for children’s entertainers perpetuates the false belief that they pose a safeguarding risk, creating unnecessary suspicion and fear. This unfairly stigmatises entertainers and discourages skilled individuals from bringing joy to children’s events.

Relevant Legislation

• Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006: Sets out the definition of regulated activity with children. Entertaining is not included unless unsupervised or involving regular caregiving.
• Police Act 1997: Limits DBS checks to roles that directly involve regulated activity.
• Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975: Protects spent convictions from disclosure unless a role qualifies for exemption, which children’s party entertainers do not.

In Summary
Children’s party entertainers do not require a DBS check because their role does not involve regulated activity as defined by UK law. Claims that DBS checks are mandatory for such roles spread unnecessary fear and stigma. It is also unlawful for organisations to request DBS checks for unregulated activities, as outlined in the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and the Police Act 1997.

If asked for a DBS check for an unregulated role, it’s important to remind clients or venues that their request may be in breach of the law and to ensure safeguarding policies align with actual legal requirements.

Parent Information for our Glow in the Dark Neon Party! 

Thank you for joining us to celebrate

Here’s what you need to know for a glowing, fun-filled time:

Dress Code:

Please dress your child in neon or white clothing to make the most of the UV lights.

Glow-in-the-dark face paints will be used, so avoid delicate clothing. Let us know if your child would prefer to skip face paint.

The games are quite active, so we recommend cycle shorts or leggings under party dresses.

Glow Stick Safety:

Each child will receive a glow stick or bracelet. These are low-toxicity, but if broken or chewed, they may cause mild irritation. Please remind children not to chew them.

Allergies:

We may give out sweets during the party, usually Fizzers or Love Hearts, which are vegan-friendly.

Please notify the host of any allergies or special requirements in advance.

Party Setup:

The room will be darkened for the best neon effect, so expect a glowing atmosphere!

Please note that music may be loud and flashing disco lights will be used, which could affect children with sensory sensitivities.

Guidelines:

Avoid bringing loose balloons or items that could distract or disrupt the party.

Got Questions? If you have any concerns, contact us:

07795 342639 or email hello@absolutelyamazingparties.co.uk

Click the link below to download this information in PDF format.

UV GLOW TIPS

Why Children’s Entertainers Don’t Need a DBS Check

When considering hiring a children’s entertainer, you might wonder if a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is necessary. While it’s understandable to seek peace of mind, it’s important to know that most children’s entertainers are not legally required to have a DBS check.

What Is a DBS Check?

A DBS check is a background check that reveals any criminal history an individual might have. These checks are typically required for roles that involve regular, unsupervised contact with children or vulnerable adults. However, this doesn’t apply to most children’s entertainers.

Why Isn’t a DBS Check Required?

Children’s entertainers usually work at one-off events, such as parties, where they are never left alone with children. The law only mandates a DBS check for roles that involve frequent and unsupervised interaction with children. Since entertainers do not fall under this category, a DBS check is not necessary.

It’s Unlawful to Request a DBS Check Unnecessarily

It’s important to note that it is unlawful to request a DBS check for a role that doesn’t require one. Asking for a DBS check when the role does not meet the legal criteria can be a breach of the law. This ensures that background checks are only used where absolutely necessary and that individuals’ rights are protected.

Best Practices for Booking Entertainers

While a DBS check isn’t needed, you can still take steps to ensure a safe and enjoyable event:

• Always have a responsible adult present: Ensure that there’s at least one other adult present during the event so the entertainer is never left in sole charge of the children.
• Choose a reputable entertainer: Look for entertainers with strong reviews and a proven track record. Experience and professionalism are key indicators of a trustworthy performer.
• Communicate clearly: Discuss your expectations and any concerns with the entertainer beforehand to ensure everything runs smoothly.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your event is safe and enjoyable without the need for a DBS check.

If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to contact us directly.

Jayne
Absolutely Amazing Parties

When it comes to planning a memorable children’s party, finding something that appeals to both boys and girls can be a challenge.  Our characters are designed to appeal to both boys and girls, ensuring that every child feels included and excited. With a wide range of themes, from superheroes to princesses, and pirates to adventurers, our parties offer something for everyone. Whether it’s through interactive games, creative activities, or engaging stories, our characters bring out the fun and imagination in all children, making sure everyone has a fantastic time, no matter their interests.

Inclusive Themes

One of the key reasons our character parties are so popular with both boys and girls is the variety of themes we offer. From brave superheroes to magical princesses, adventurous pirates to curious explorers, there’s something for everyone. Each theme is carefully crafted to appeal to children’s imaginations, offering them a chance to step into a world where they can be anything they want.

Interactive and Engaging

Our parties are not just about watching a character perform – they’re about becoming part of the story. We design our activities to be interactive, allowing children to fully immerse themselves in the experience. Whether it’s embarking on a treasure hunt with a pirate or joining forces with a superhero to save the day, these interactive adventures capture the attention of all children, keeping them engaged and entertained.

Tailored Activities

Understanding that every child is unique, we tailor our activities to suit the needs and interests of both boys and girls. For example, a pirate-themed party might include treasure hunts and swashbuckling lessons ensuring that there are activities that appeal to everyone. Meanwhile, a princess party could involve everything from royal dancing lessons to dragon-slaying quests, offering a balanced mix of action and imagination.

Emphasising Teamwork

Our character parties are designed to encourage teamwork and collaboration, which naturally appeals to children of all genders. Boys and girls work together to complete challenges, solve puzzles, and achieve their goals, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared achievement. This not only makes the party more fun but also helps children build important social skills.

Encouraging Creativity

We believe that imagination has no gender, and our character parties are a testament to that. By encouraging children to step into the shoes of their favourite characters, we help them explore their creativity and express themselves in new ways. Whether they’re donning a cape to become a superhero or wearing a crown to rule a kingdom, our parties give every child a chance to shine.

Memorable Moments

Ultimately, the goal of our character parties is to create memories that will last a lifetime. By offering something for everyone, we ensure that each child leaves the party with a smile on their face, a sense of accomplishment, and a story to tell.

In conclusion, our character parties are designed with every child in mind. With inclusive themes, interactive activities, and an emphasis on teamwork and creativity, we provide a party experience that’s not only fun but also meaningful for both boys and girls. Whether your child dreams of being a pirate, a princess, or something in between, our parties offer a world of adventure where every child can be a hero in their own story.

Why 1 Hour Parties Are Perfect for Three Year Olds

As a mum of two and the owner of a party character business, I’ve seen first-hand how different age groups respond to parties. When it comes to three year olds, I’ve found that one-hour parties are just the right amount of time for them. While a two-hour party might seem like more fun, it often doesn’t work out that way for our little ones. Let me explain why a shorter party is usually the best choice.

Short Attention Spans

At three years old, children have pretty short attention spans. They can only focus on an activity for about 15-20 minutes before they’re ready to move on. It’s not just about getting bored; they genuinely don’t have the cognitive ability yet to stay engaged with one thing for too long. Stretching a party out to two hours can end up being more tiring and confusing for them, rather than enjoyable. A one-hour party, however, is perfect for keeping their interest and excitement alive without pushing their limits.

Understanding and Engagement

At this age, kids are still developing their understanding of the world around them. They may not fully grasp the concept of a longer party and can struggle to follow along with extended activities or games. They’re at a stage where they learn best through short bursts of play and interaction. A one-hour party is just the right length to give them a taste of everything without overwhelming them. It ensures they stay happy and engaged without losing interest or becoming overstimulated.

Managing Energy Levels

Let’s be honest, 3 year olds have boundless energy, but it’s not unlimited! They can get tired pretty quickly, especially if they’re doing something exciting like a party. A shorter, one-hour party helps avoid that mid-party crash where they might get cranky or overly tired. It fits neatly into their natural rhythm, ensuring they have a great time without getting worn out.

Quality Time

With just an hour, you can focus on making every moment special. You can plan a few simple, age-appropriate activities that the kids can really get into, whether it’s a mini disco, a short story session, or some playful games. It’s about creating a memorable experience that leaves them feeling happy and fulfilled, rather than dragging things out and risking boredom or confusion.

Parent-Friendly

As a parent, I know how busy life can be. A one-hour party is much easier to organise and manage. There’s less preparation, less cleanup, and it’s less likely to disrupt the rest of the day. It’s a quick and simple way to celebrate without the stress of a longer event, making it a win-win for both parents and kids.

In conclusion, while a longer party might sound like more fun, a one-hour celebration is often the perfect fit for three year olds. It’s just the right amount of time to keep them happy and engaged without overdoing it. So, when you’re planning your next party, remember that shorter can be sweeter — and a lot less stressful!

Hey there party planners!

With over 11 years of rocking the East Midland’s children’s parties, I’ve seen my fair share of shindigs. I’ve lost count, but I reckon I’ve danced my way through at least a thousand gigs. And let me tell you, I’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a party soar or sink, especially from the entertainer’s point of view.

Now, when you’re hiring an entertainer, you’re aiming for a stress-free blast, right? Well, that dream party takes a bit of teamwork between you and your performer. Communication is key! Take some time to chat with your entertainer and make sure they’re on the same page as you. Look, an entertainer who agrees to everything might not have the chops you’re after. Experienced entertainers? They’re like treasure troves of party wisdom. So, don’t shy away from picking their brains. Trust me, a smooth-sailing party is all about that teamwork. Chaos? No thanks!

Let’s talk balloons.

Balloons. Can’t have a bash without ’em, can you? They’re like instant party magic. But, hold up, they can also be the catalyst for chaos.

As an entertainer who’s all about keeping the party vibes chill, I walk a fine line between fun enforcer and buzzkill. It’s all about balance, folks. But let’s not forget, parties are meant to be fun! Yet, unchecked fun can quickly spiral into mayhem. Thankfully, there are ways to keep the peace.

First off, if you’re having balloons, keep ’em off the floor. I know, I know, sounds like a buzzkill move. But trust me, loose balloons can turn into rogue missiles in no time. And that squeaky, poppy noise? Not exactly party vibes, is it?

Now, if you’re having a free-play session, go wild with balloons on the floor. They’re a cheap and cheerful way to keep the little ones occupied. But if you’ve booked entertainment, keep the focus on the show. Too many distractions? Recipe for chaos, my friends.

Oh, and helium balloons? Beautiful, but keep those strings out of reach. Trust me, you don’t want a kiddo army claiming them all.

Remember, some kids aren’t balloon fans, especially those on the spectrum. Let’s keep the tears to a minimum, yeah?

So, here’s the lowdown:

• Keep floor balloons away during entertainment time.
• Helium balloons? String just above little grabby hands.
• Secure helium balloons to chairs for extra flair.
• Watch out for burst balloons – choking hazard!
• And adults, let’s leave the balloon catapults at home, yeah?

Let’s keep the party vibes high and the chaos at bay!

This Christmas Eve, Beanblock Cafe in Newark became the epicenter of enchantment as families gathered for a magical Santa and Elf party. The festivities, complete with games, Santa’s Grotto visits, and a heartwarming breakfast, were beautifully captured by the talented photographer, Ronnie Lawson. Families now have the opportunity to relive these cherished moments through Ronnie’s lens.

Santa’s Grotto Adventure

The heart of the celebration was Santa’s Grotto, where children embarked on a magical journey, one by one. Adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, the grotto provided the perfect setting for intimate conversations with Santa Claus. Ronnie Lawson skilfully captured the awe and wonder on the faces of children as they experienced the magic of Christmas.

Elf-Led Fun and Games
The cheerful singing elf Jingles, the life of the party, engaged children and families in a series of festive games. Laughter filled the air as the elf spread joy and merriment throughout Beanblock Cafe.

Breakfast Bliss for All

Beanblock Cafe not only offered magical experiences but also a delicious breakfast spread for both children and adults. From scrumptious pastries to hearty options, families were treated to a delightful meal that added to the warmth of the occasion.

Ronnie Lawson’s Photography

In the spirit of preserving memories, Ronnie Lawson expertly documented the entire event. Families had the opportunity to purchase their photographs with Santa, ensuring that the magic  could be cherished for years to come. Ronnie’s keen eye for detail and festive shots captured the essence of the celebration, making the photographs a treasured keepsake.

Community Bonding

The Santa and Elf party at Beanblock Cafe, documented by Ronnie Lawson, wasn’t just an event; it was a celebration of community and togetherness. Families from Newark and beyond came together to create memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Thanks to Ronnie Lawson’s photography, the magic of the Santa and Elf party at Beanblock Cafe will endure beyond the Christmas season. As families look back on these photographs, they’ll be transported to a time of joy, laughter, and enchantment. In the heart of Newark, this celebration, immortalised through Ronnie’s lens, exemplifies the magic that unfolds when community, festivities, and a touch of photography come together in perfect harmony.

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