Disabled Thinking
I am by no means disabled, but I am starting to take notice of stories about disabilities. This report about Muslim bus and taxi drivers refusing to take guide dogs got my sttention. Interestingly, when I go to Addenbrookes, I often see a guide dog in training, as obviously the hospital is a difficult environment, with crowds and trolleys everywhere. No-one seems to object there.
Returning to the public transport issue, it is against the law to not take someone with a guide dog. Perhaps, we need a few prosecutions to make sure the law is obeyed.
But it is not all bad news, as Leicestershire now allows guide dogs in training and their trainers to go free according to this report.
I should say that although, I’m pro-dog, you have to make sure your dog behaves properly. I’d also like to see those that keep nasty breeds and use them to intimidate are prosecuted as well.
The Anonymous Widower 
I’m appalled at the idea that Moslem bus/taxi drivers might refuse to take a guide dog – particularly bus drivers, as the bus is not their property. Never heard of that happening before. I have a well-trained beautifully behaved cocker spaniel, who knows how to behave on a bus.
Lesley
Comment by Lesley Maciver | July 18, 2010 |
Not sure if my basset would. But then bassets can get away with things that other dogs can’t. They’ve had good PR over the years!
Comment by AnonW | July 18, 2010 |
I have been disabled for 3 1/2 years now. Not badly, I can walk, but not far, and my hands have little feeling, and I have chronic pain in my face, neck and ear.
I use a mobility scooter on occasions. Shops provide these for customers in manycases. And then they lay their shop out so it is impossible to get around the store when using one! Marks and Spencer at the worse for this. I have complained countless times, it does no good.
I dont know if it is against the law to refuse someone with a guide access to the bus or taxi. I also dont know WHY Muslim bus drivers and cabbies would do this.
Comment by Liz P | July 18, 2010 |
Try writing to the CEO. I find this often works better than using the normal channels, as it might hit a nerve. Be funny or quote something they have said!
Comment by AnonW | July 18, 2010 |