Hypnotism

If you wish to give an exhibition, a demonstration or a performance of hypnotism for entertainment purposes, in order to comply with the Hypnotism Act 1952 you must obtain permission from us and follow any applicable conditions we impose.

Hypnotism performed for medical or scientific purposes does not require our permission.

Application procedure

Applications for authorisation can be made either by the hypnotist, or by the venue at which they will be performing (or agents for either of these). A link to apply online can be found below.

We will ask for details of the venue and proposed show, so that we can ensure that these are suitable and safe, as well as details of the hypnotist, including recent performances, experience and membership of professional bodies. We may contact venues and local councils where the hypnotist has previously appeared to confirm the details given.

If we are satisfied that the proposed hypnosis will be conducted safely, we will issue a letter of authorisation for the show, and details of any conditions applied.

Apply online

Apply online for authorisation for a hypnotism performance

There is no charge for this service.

Can I start performing before my application is determined?

We aim to complete all of our checks and notify you of our decision within 20 working days from when we receive your completed application. If you have not heard from us by the end of this period, tacit consent will apply to your application and you may act as though your application is granted.

Refusal of applications

We will not refuse an application without very good reason - however, if we do, there is no right of appeal against our decision. In such cases, we will always give a full explanation of why we have come to such a decision, and before refusing we will work with you to see if there is any way in which our concerns can be resolved.

Complaints

If you have attended a hypnotism entertainment event and were unhappy with the show, we recommend that in the first instance you contact the venue where the event took place to discuss this with them. If this does not resolve your concerns, the Citizens Advice Bureau may be able to provide assistance (or the UK European Consumer Centre, if you are outside the UK).

If you wish to report an unauthorised hypnotism event, or an event which you believe did not comply with our authorisation conditions, please contact us with the details, and we will investigate further.

Please note that we cannot intervene in any hypnotism provided for medical or scientific purposes.

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Page Last Updated: Wednesday, 21 December 2016 at 09:38 AM