9:40am Tuesday 23rd June 2009
By Chris Holland
The head of a West Yorkshire healthcare furniture and equipment manufacturer has called on the Government to scrap VAT on all care products for the elderly and infirm.
Richard Spencer, chairman of Wilsden-based James Spencer & Co Ltd, made the call at the opening of the company’s extended showroom and assessment centre at its Prospect Mills headquarters.
Mr Spencer said: “I have always found it hard to swallow that the Government deems it necessary to charge VAT on furniture products such as back care chairs and adjustable tables for elderly and disabled people.
“Many of these people, war veterans among them, have sacrificed a great deal to help and defend their country. I find it appalling that they should be expected to pay VAT on these products at an age when we should be doing everything possible to enhance their quality of life – and not charge them extra taxes for the privilege.”
His comments were supported by Shipley MP Philip Davies, who opened the new showroom, and also called for greater recognition for the work the UK’s six million carers do for their families, friends and communities.
Mr Davies said: “Carers provide unpaid care for a loved one who is ill, frail or disabled. They are saving the state a fortune, yet receive hardly any recognition at all for the priceless contribution they make to their families, local communities and society in general. It is shocking the way they are treated.”
James Spencer’s new 3,000 sq ft showroom is double the size of the previous display area and has been designed to showcase the company’s products to the general public, carers and therapists.
It contains specific zones displaying Spencer’s furniture and equipment ranges, along with a sections covering specialist back care, bariatric – for overweight people – and challenging environments products. Many have been developed by working in partnership with the company’s customers.
Richard Spencer said: “The new showroom also acts as an assessment centre, offering help and advice on any specialist requirements.”
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