VAT Policy
Some of our products may be eligible for VAT relief if you’re buying them for someone with a long-term illness or disability. You don’t need a doctor’s note, just an honest declaration that you qualify.
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VAT Relief Policy for Assistive Technologies
We are committed to making our assistive devices accessible and affordable. In line with UK government regulations, certain products designed for individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses may qualify for VAT relief, allowing eligible customers to purchase these items without paying Value Added Tax (VAT).
Who Is Eligible for VAT Relief?
You may be eligible for VAT relief if you meet the following criteria:
Chronic Illness or Disability: You have a physical or mental impairment that has a long-term and substantial adverse effect on your ability to carry out everyday activities, or you have a condition that the medical profession treats as a chronic sickness (e.g., diabetes).
It’s important to note that individuals who are elderly but not disabled, or those who are temporarily disabled, do not qualify for VAT relief.
Qualifying Products
Products that are eligible for VAT relief are those designed solely for use by disabled individuals. Examples include:
Emergency alarm call systems designed to be operated by a disabled person.
Mobility aids such as certain types of wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
Medical and surgical appliances designed solely for the relief of a severe abnormality or severe injury.
Please consult with us to determine if a specific product qualifies for VAT relief.
Non-Qualifying Products
Products that are designed for use by both disabled and non-disabled individuals do not qualify for VAT relief. Examples include:
General-use laptops, tablets, and smartphones not specifically designed for disabled individuals.
Standard furniture or household items without specific adaptations for disability.
Additionally, services such as the installation of general-purpose equipment or building work not directly related to disability needs are not eligible for VAT relief.
How to Claim VAT Relief
To claim VAT relief on eligible products:
VAT Exeption Declaration: On the checkout screen, tick the “VAT Exemption” check box.
Complete the Form: You must complete a VAT relief eligibility declaration, confirming that you (or the person you are buying for) meet the criteria outlined above.
We will then process your order without charging VAT on eligible items and subsequent subscription charges.
Additional Information
For more detailed information on VAT relief for disabled individuals, please refer to the official UK government guidance:
If you have any questions or need assistance with the VAT relief process, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Not sure if you qualify for VAT relief?
Understanding VAT relief can be confusing, especially when it comes to assistive technologies. To help, we’ve put together some simple, real-world examples based on how our products are typically used. These common scenarios should give you a clearer idea of who qualifies, and when VAT relief applies.
If you’re still unsure after reading, feel free to get in touch — we’re happy to help.
Jean is 78 and has osteoporosis, which affects her balance. Her doctor has recommended a fall alarm. She uses a fall detection watch from Safeguard to stay safe at home and outdoors.
✅ In this case, Jean is eligible for VAT relief
It's worth noting that Jean does not need a doctor to recommend the watch in order to qualify for VAT relief, but her condition needs to be long-term and not temporary, according to government rules.
Bill is living with early-stage dementia. He uses a GPS pendant alarm that automatically alerts his daughter if he wanders or presses the SOS button.
✅ In this case, Bill is eligible for VAT relief
It's worth noting Bill does not need to provide formal medical proof or a written diagnosis, but he (or his representative) must honestly declare that he has a chronic condition, which dementia qualifies as under HMRC guidelines.
Debbie is 62 and lives with multiple sclerosis. She uses a Safeguard personal alarm in case she needs assistance during a flare-up that affects her mobility.
✅ In this case, Bill is eligible for VAT relief
It's worth noting Debbie does not need formal medical diagnosis is not required to qualify for VAT relief. She simply needs to declare that they have a long-term physical or mental condition that significantly affects their daily life.
Michael buys an alarm for his 85-year-old mum who is generally well and active. While he wants extra peace of mind, his mother does not have a chronic illness or disability that affects her day-to-day life.
❌ In this case, VAT relief does not apply.
It is worth noting here that VAT relief is available based on a person’s condition, not their age. A formal diagnosis is not required, but the individual must honestly declare that they have a long-term physical or mental condition that substantially impacts their ability to carry out everyday tasks.
A care home purchases multiple alarms for use by different residents. As it’s a business transaction and not for one specific eligible individual, VAT cannot be removed.
❌ In this case, VAT relief does not apply.
VAT relief must be applied to a specific individual who meets the eligibility criteria. If a device is being supplied to a named resident who has a qualifying condition and the care home is acting on their behalf (not as a business), VAT relief may apply — but it must be claimed per person with a completed eligibility declaration for each user.