Taxi drivers fined for refusing guide dog in Milton Keynes

A Milton Keynes mother whose guide dog was refused entry to a taxi has welcomed enforcement action resulting in fines against the drivers involved. The case highlights ongoing issues with taxi operators illegally refusing assistance dog handlers.

What the law says

Under the Equality Act 2010, taxi drivers must allow assistance dogs (including guide dogs) to travel with their handlers unless the dog poses a genuine safety risk. Refusing entry without lawful reason constitutes unlawful discrimination. Local authorities can pursue enforcement action and issue fines against non-compliant operators.

If this happens to you

If a taxi driver refuses your assistance dog, ask them to confirm their refusal in writing, note the vehicle registration and operator details, then report to your local licensing authority and contact the operator's management. Consider reporting to the local council's trading standards or licensing team.

Source: BBC

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ADR
Written & reviewed by the ADR Team
Assistance Dog Registry, supporting UK assistance dog handlers since 2020

We're a UK-based team dedicated to assistance dog handlers. Since 2020 we've supplied 20,000+ assistance dog ID cards and supported thousands of handlers, owner-trained and charity-trained alike. Our guidance on the Equality Act 2010 and assistance dog access rights is referenced in UK public-sector accessibility policy and relied on by NHS staff, employers and carers. We're not a government body: registration is voluntary, and we'll always tell you so honestly. Learn more about us →  |  [email protected]

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