I have long been a supporter of the Guide Dogs UK charity, and last week I attended an event in Westminster Hall in support of guide dogs.
In past years I have supported Guide Dogs UK in their campaign to have all dogs microchipped and reduce the number of attacks by other animals on guide dogs. I have also worked with them to address the increasing problem of kerb parking, which causes particular dangers for visually-impaired people. The Government is now considering new legislation to address this problem.
Currently, this excellent charity is working to address the issue of shops and businesses refusing to admit people with guide dogs. People with visual impairment often need to use taxis and private hire cars to help them get around, but these services are apparently not always aware of how best to accommodate the visually impaired and their guide dogs. The event focussed on how to ensure that individuals who rely on guide dogs have equal access to transport when with their dogs.
After hearing from representatives from the charity and meeting visually impaired people from Northampton who have experienced this problem, I am now making enquiries with the authorities in Northampton to try to ensure everyone is aware of the best practice in helping those in our town who have disabilities.