Businesses in Northern Ireland are still turning away guide dog owners despite legal protections. The article highlights ongoing access refusals affecting disabled handlers and their assistance dogs.
What the law says
Under the Equality Act 2010, it is unlawful discrimination for a business to refuse entry to a person with a guide dog or other assistance dog. The dog must be allowed access to any area where the public is normally permitted. Exceptions exist only where the dog poses a genuine health and safety risk, which is extremely rare.
If this happens to you
Document the refusal in writing, including the business name, date, time and what was said. Report it to your local council's trading standards team or environmental health department. You can also contact the Equality and Human Rights Commission in Northern Ireland for guidance on pursuing a formal complaint.
Source: NorthernIrelandWorld
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