Specialist large cup fittings specialist, Panache Lingerie, has called for bras to be exempt from VAT.
Panache Lingerie are in support of the motion that was carried by members of the Society of Radiographers last week, that bras are a basic necessity and called on the Treasury to remove the VAT from the sale of bras, claiming it could be considered discriminatory under the Equality Act as it disproportionately affects women. Members of the Society added “Those who are wearing a bra size D or above often get backaches, aching shoulders, and neck pain, because of the weight of their breasts. Wearing a good-quality, well-fitted bra could alleviate some of these issues, and reduce time off sick for musculoskeletal issues.”
Panache understands the health risks that come with wearing a poorly fitting bra, especially at a D+ cup size and firmly believe that all women have the right to healthy, happy boobs, and that starts with the right fit.
I absolutely and wholeheartedly agree with this sentiment. Breast healthcare, including a correctly fitting bra, is so fundamental to many aspects of a woman’s life. Ministers need to understand the importance and ultimately the benefits of learning about how much better lives would be if we took the time to appreciate breast care and its impact on wellbeing. I’m sure that my peers would join me in having the chance to support the Radiographer’s call to remove VAT from such an essential part of women’s day to day life – improving affordability and in turn, accessibility. We are committed to working with industry professionals, and peers, to lobby for change.”
John Power, Managing Director, Panache Lingerie
Panache are advocates for having the best fitting lingerie possible and strongly recommend being professionally fitted by their trained stockists. Alongside bras, Panache use their expert knowledge and technical experience to create cup-sized swimwear and award-winning sports bras that provide the same level of comfort and support. As the official performance bra consultants to the UKSI (United Kingdom Sports Institute), they provide a bespoke fitting service to elite athletes, raise awareness of the benefits of wearing the correct fitting sports bra, and provide educational content for all athletes on the importance of fit.
Panache Sport (specialists in larger cup sizing)
The removal of the “Tampon Tax” in January 2021 was a victory for those who called for the removal of VAT from products related to women’s physical health, and Panache urge the Treasury to treat this request as a priority. Woman should not have to suffer the consequences of wearing cheaper, poorly- fitting, bras and be encouraged and assisted in making better choices for their health and happiness.
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