Hypnotists
Stage Hypnotists
Any exhibition, demonstration or performance of hypnotism (as defined in the Hypnotism Act 1952) on any person requires the express written consent of the licensing authority and must comply with the Council’s Model Conditions of Consent.
The Council must receive any application for consent not less than 28 days prior to it taking place. The Applicant must also copy the application to the Chief Officer of the Police and the Local Fire Authority.
All applications must be on the standard application form and must contain details of:
(i) The name (both real and stage, if different) and address of the person who will give the performance (hereafter referred to as the “hypnotist”), along with details of their last three performances (where and when);
(ii) A statement as to whether, and if so giving full details thereof, the hypnotist has been previously refused or had withdrawn a consent by any licensing authority or been convicted of an offence under the Hypnotism Act 1952 or of an offence involving the breach of a condition regulating or prohibiting the giving of a performance of hypnotism on any person at any theatre or other place of public amusement or public entertainment; and
(iii) Public Liability Insurance (minimum £1,000,000) supported by a certificate of insurance.
If any person gives such an exhibition, demonstration or performance in contravention of these provisions (or of any conditions attached to such an authorisation), they will be liable, on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding Level 3 on the Standard Scale.
How to apply
You can apply for consent to conduct an exhibition, demonstration or performance of hypnotism online through the GOV.UK website.