Psychotherapy should be exempt from VAT. That is the position of COSRT. Many privately provided health services including psychiatry and psychology already are. And the disparity must end.
The growing demand for mental health support is well documented, driven by the effects of the pandemic. Whilst many seek private support out of choice, for many it is out of necessity with the NHS under huge strain.
VAT on psychotherapy is an issue of accessibility says COSRT CEO Dr John Dodd:
“The reality is that many people in need are forced to pay for mental health support. VAT on Psychotherapy and Counselling becomes a cost that is passed on to service users. That represents an avoidable and damaging economic barrier to service access”.
COSRT calls for VAT to be removed from Psychotherapy and Counselling to increase accessibility. This is especially important at a time of such need, as stated by Dr Dodd:
“We know that, in part because of the pandemic, more and more people need and are seeking mental health support. Every tool must be examined and used to maximise access – including the economic”.
This issue has been raised by multiple professional bodies in the past. And petitions have been started to attempt to force government debate. One such petition is currently live: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/602265