Performances of hypnotism

Any exhibition, demonstration or performance of hypnotism requires written consent from the local authority. Hypnotism is defined in the Hypnotism Act 1952 as hypnotism, mesmerism and any similar act or process which produces or is intended to produce in any person any form of induced sleep or trance in which the susceptibility of the mind of that person to suggestion or direction is increased or intended to be increased, but does not include hypnotism, mesmerism or any such similar act or process which is self induced.

Applications should be made using the hypnotism consent application form at least 28 days before the proposed performance date(s), unless a shorter time period is agreed in advance in individual circumstances. The authority may consult other relevant bodies such as the police and fire service prior to determining any application. There is no fee payable for this process.

For details on how we use data relating to licence holders and applicants, please see our privacy notice for licence holders and applicants.

Applications can be emailed to us at licensing.unit@whitehorsedc.gov.uk or posted to the licensing team at the address below.

Where there is no objection the application will be granted and the consent issued with our standard conditions for hypnotism plus any specific conditions as may be appropriate. Where there are objections or it is considered appropriate, a panel of the Licensing Acts Committee will determine the application. The applicant will receive details of any hearing at least five days prior to the date of the hearing.