Charity highlights issues faced by guide dog users

Venues across the UK are breaking the law by preventing partially sighted and blind people from using guide dogs inside.

New data collected by Guide Dogs shows that people continue to be refused service, even though the government has repeatedly issued legal advice to small businesses telling them they must permit the entry to their premises of the working canines.

A report released by the foundation shows 24 per cent of all incidents reported by blind people involved eateries, while 23 per cent of partially sighted people commented they have been denied access to transport, including taxis and minibuses, because of their guide dog.

Hotels, campsites and rented accommodation did relatively well, according to the study, as only seven per cent of sight-restricted individuals have reported an issue with this sector.

Richard Leaman, chief executive of Guide dogs, said: “More awareness is needed to avoid blind and partially sighted people having to cope with this stress and discrimination in their daily lives.”

Mr Leaman added poor training and a lack of legal advice were normally behind the ignorance, but this needs to change.

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