A guide dog handler has experienced multiple refusals of service and expressed frustration at having to continually advocate for their rights. The handler's comments suggest ongoing discrimination despite legal protections.
What the law says
Under the Equality Act 2010, businesses providing goods and services must make reasonable adjustments and cannot discriminate against disabled people with service animals. Guide dogs are specifically protected, and refusal of access is unlawful unless there are genuine health and safety concerns. Handlers have the right to challenge discriminatory refusals.
If this happens to you
Document all refusals with dates, locations and details of staff involved. Report incidents to the Assistance Dog Registry and consider formal complaints to the business, local authority trading standards, or the Equality and Human Rights Commission. Legal advice may be available through disability rights organisations.
Source: BBC
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