End the Dementia Tax: Avril and Michael’s Story
- amycourtspooner
- 15 hours ago
- 2 min read
Dr Avril and Dr Michael Staunton live in Bridgwater, Somerset. Both are veteran Army medics who have led remarkable lives of service and achievement.
Over ten years ago, Avril was diagnosed with a rare form of Alzheimer’s called posterior cortical atrophy (PCA), a condition that primarily affects vision and perception.
After the diagnosis, Michael drew on his Army experience to help Avril stay active and engaged. Together, they continued pursuing the adventures they loved - climbing Kilimanjaro and walking the 500-mile Camino Frances from the French Pyrenees to Spain, raising money for the Alzheimer’s Society along the way.
Today, Avril attends two Filo groups on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Michael describes The Filo Project as a life-saver: "It’s not a matter of convenience, it’s a lifeline in giving families respite. Especially when I am exhausted and Avril’s needs have escalated."
He also believes removing VAT on essential dementia care is a matter of common sense and fairness: “And looking at the bigger picture, day care like The Filo Project saves money for Local Authorities as families are less likely to reach crisis point and need expensive residential care. It’s unfair that a tax anomaly means they have to charge families extra just because they’re a CiC."
On 19th November, alongside our Founders Libby and Liz, Avril and Michael will hand an open letter from Michael to Rachel Reeves, calling for an end to VAT charges on CiC dementia day care services like The Filo Project.
Michael’s letter to the Chancellor shares his personal experience of caring for Avril and the vital role Filo days play in their lives. It sets out why VAT on dementia day care places an unfair financial burden on families across the UK.
You can read the open letter here and support Michael and Avril by adding your name using our online form.
