Rejected petition Make counselling and psychotherapy VAT-exempt to improve mental health access.

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.

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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.

This petition was rejected

Why was this petition rejected?

There’s already a petition about this issue. We cannot accept a new petition when we already have one about a very similar issue.

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You may wish to sign this petition which calls for the same action:

Make all private mental health treatment VAT exempt
https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/731335

We only reject petitions that don’t meet the petition standards.

Date submitted 19 November 2025
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