Caroline Kennelly, a blind woman, was refused entry to a Morrisons store with her guide dog, Dougie, due to allergy claims.
The woman, Caroline Kennelly, was upset. She has very little vision, and stores are usually safe for her guide dog. This store would prevent a busy street crossing.
The man at the counter refused entry. Dougie wore his harness. Kennelly told him he was breaking the law, but he wouldn’t listen to her.
Kennelly almost cried. She felt intimidated and discriminated against. This refusal affects her confidence, and she now fears future rejections. A friend helped her shop.
Equality law protects guide dog users. Employers must limit allergic employees’ contact with dogs. Banning all guide dogs is often unreasonable.
Kennelly has been blind since losing her sight. Her guide dog helps her, and Dougie supports her independence. She contacted the Guide Dogs Charity.
The charity confirmed denying access is illegal. They are disappointed by this refusal, as refusals hurt confidence. Most guide dog owners face access issues.
Assistance dogs legally enable daily activities. Denying access violates equality laws. Morrisons apologized for the incident, but the manager still supports the ban.
Morrisons stated everyone is welcome. They contacted the store and plan to apologize to Kennelly. The store is a franchise, and they are addressing the issue.
The manager still won’t allow Dougie. He cited the owner’s allergies and offered staff assistance instead. The store maintains its position.