A Basingstoke resident was refused entry to a supermarket and told her service dog was not legitimate. This represents a potential breach of UK access rights for assistance dog handlers in a retail setting.
What the law says
Under the Equality Act 2010, assistance dogs are allowed access to all public places where members of the public are normally admitted, including supermarkets. Retailers must make reasonable adjustments and cannot refuse entry based on disability or the presence of a legitimate assistance dog. A refusal constitutes discrimination unless the dog poses a genuine health or safety risk.
If this happens to you
Document the date, time, location, staff member's name and the exact words used in the refusal. Contact the supermarket's head office with a formal complaint referencing the Equality Act 2010. If unresolved, seek advice from the Assistance Dog Registry or a disability rights organisation about escalating the matter.
Source: Basingstoke Gazette
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