Credit: Guide Dogs
Stephen has showed support for the rights of guide dog owners at an event in Parliament organised by the charity Guide Dogs.
Guide dogs are key for many people with sight loss to getting around independently, but research from the charity Guide Dogs has shown that 81% of guide dog owners have been turned away from shops, restaurants and others businesses because of their dogs. This discrimination can be humiliating and debilitating, with almost half of guide dog owners saying they have changed their plans or restrict visits to avoid being refused.
Stephen learnt more about the charity’s campaign to strengthen the law and requirements for training to prevent access refusals from happening in the first place.
Speaking after the event, Stephen said: “It is shocking that so many guide dog owners have reported being refused access to a restaurant, shop or taxi at some point because of their dog. This discrimination must end."
“It is now well over a decade since the Equality Act was introduced. The duties in the Act that require service providers to avoid putting disabled people at a substantial disadvantage are very clear, and it is shameful that 12 years later those with guide dogs are still facing blatant discrimination. I can understand why disability organisations find this both disappointing and disheartening.”
Eleanor Briggs, Head of Policy, Public Affairs and Campaigns at Guide Dogs, added: “Guide dog owners deserve to be able to live the lives they want and feel confident, independent, and supported in the world. However, too many guide dog owners continue to face discrimination and are turned away because they have their guide dog with them. That’s why we are calling for action to strengthen the law to end this unacceptable discrimination.”