Petition
Make counselling and psychotherapy VAT-exempt to improve mental health access.
Rejected
9 signatures
What the petition asks
We want the Government to make counselling and psychotherapy VAT-exempt. This should apply only to qualified, accredited professionals delivering clinical mental health support, not coaching or wellbeing services, to ensure clear and safe boundaries.
Too many people cannot afford private counselling due to the added 20% VAT. Removing VAT would improve access to essential mental health support, reduce pressure on NHS services, and prevent people from reaching crisis point. Current VAT rules are inconsistent, leave many qualified therapists disadvantaged, and create financial barriers for those most in need of early intervention. This change would support those on lower incomes and ensure VAT rules reflect modern mental health needs.
Why it was rejected
There was already a petition about this issue. Duplicates are rejected so signatures collect in one place.
You may wish to sign this petition which calls for the same action:
Make all private mental health treatment VAT exempt
Make all private mental health treatment VAT exempt
Make all private mental health treatment VAT exempt
Make all private mental health treatment VAT exempt
Timeline
| 19 Nov 2025 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 16 Dec 2025 | Rejected by the Petitions Committee |
Key facts
Signatures
9
Status
Rejected
Rejected
16 Dec 2025
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 31 Aug 2026.