About Us
What is the Association of Circus Proprietors of Great Britain (ACP)
The Association of Circus Proprietors of Great Britain, generally referred to as The ACP, is the leading-edge trade association providing leadership and professional support for the circus industry in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Established in 1932, it has, for over eighty years, promoted the interests of its members and the circus industry at large. It is recognised by Government as the consultative body on proposed legislation or other matters which could affect that industry. Its membership is comprehensive, ranging from the major touring and resident circuses to medium-sized and small circuses and also other similar outdoor entertainments, many of which offer a niche product. Membership is open to any circus able to illustrate acceptable standards of trading in line with the ethics of the ACP and which provide the public with a circus show at an approved level and commensurate with the admission price being charged. It is the only circus organisation to be registered with The Certification Office for Trade Unions and Employers’ Associations, to which it submits an annual report and has the approval of the Registrar to its constitution.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to promote, through our members, the highest ideals in British circus and also to raise the profile of the circus industry, while at the same time emphasising the importance of circus as an art form through the development of cultural policy. This will be achieved by encouraging the development and sharing of best practice amongst ACP members and strengthening the acceptance of the ACP at both national and local levels as the negotiating body for the circus industry. This Mission Statement is supported by the core belief that ACP members conduct their businesses with professionalism and integrity.
What does the ACP do?
The ACP is the voice of British circus, representing large and small circuses. It aims to improve the image of the industry, by encouraging good practice and by monitoring and advising its members on legislation which affects the circus industry and which is constantly evolving and changing. The ACP influences much of that evolution by working with Government and Stakeholders and by responding to Consultations with the benefit of members’ practical knowledge and expertise. The ACP engages with National Government and independent organisations on new Parliamentary Bills, changes to legislation and the interpretation of statutory regulations. It provides members with legal advice and support on a range of issues which impact on the day to day operation of the circus and, at the same time, encourages members to be socially responsible in the way in which they operate their businesses within local communities. Externally, the role of the ACP, in representing the circus industry, is both highly visible and greatly respected.
The Association of Circus Proprietors of Great Britain, generally referred to as The ACP, is the leading-edge trade association providing leadership and professional support for the circus industry in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Established in 1932, it has, for over eighty years, promoted the interests of its members and the circus industry at large. It is recognised by Government as the consultative body on proposed legislation or other matters which could affect that industry.
