Hypnotism Authorisation

Do I need Hypnotism Authorisation?

If you wish to show, demonstrate or perform a hypnotism act in public then yes, you will need our authorisation.

How do I apply for authorisation?

You will need to download, print, complete and submit the Hypnotism Authorisation Application Form.  Paper copies of the application forms are also available from Colchester Library and Community Hub.

 You must apply for consent in writing and the application will need to be signed by the applicant or the applicant's agent.

Your application must be made no fewer than 28 days in advance of the performance.  This period may be reduced in the case of a hypnotist who has performed at the same venue within the last three years without any problems occurring.

The application must contain the following:

• The name (both real and stage name, if different) and address of the person who will give the performance along with details of their last three performances (where and when); and
• A statement as to whether, and if so giving the full details, the hypnotist has previously been refused, or had withdrawn, a consent by any licensing authority or been convicted of an offence under the Hypnotism Act 1952 or of an offence involving the breach of a condition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 a place licensed under the Licensing Act 2003 or any other place.

Are there any other restrictions or guidance that apply to my Hypnotism Authorisation or my performance?

Yes.  There are rules about advertisements for your performance to bear in mind.

No poster, advertisement or programme for performance of hypnotism which is likely to cause public offence shall be displayed, sold or supplied by or on behalf of the licensee either at the premises or elsewhere.

Every poster, advertisement or programme for the performance which is displayed, sold or supplied shall include, clearly and legibly, the following statement:

'Volunteers, who must be aged 18 or over, can refuse at any point to continue taking part in the performance'.

Also, we may attach approved conditions to any consent given for the performance.

Do I need to tell anyone else about the application?

Yes - you must send a copy of the application to the Chief Officer of Police and the Fire Authority at the same time you send it to us.

How much does it cost to apply?

See our licensing fees and charges

How long will my application take?

We will normally respond within 7 to 14 days, or fewer where the hypnotist has previously performed in the same venue.

The target completion period for a hypnotism authorisation is 14 calendar days.

Will Tacit Consent apply?

Yes.  If we do not respond to a request within the target completion period shown above (or following an extension), authorisation will be deemed to have been granted tactily unless different arrangements are in place that are justified by an Overriding Reason of Public Interest.

What can I do if my application is not successful?

Please contact us in the first instance by emailing licensing.team@colchester.gov.uk or calling 01206 282520.

How do I make a consumer complaint about a hypnotist's performance?

We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the performer by you - preferably in the form of a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked and you are located in the UK, you can check Consumer rights - GOV.UK for advice. For those outside the UK, you can contact the UK European Consumer Centre.