The campaign is supported by more than 30 organisations, including trade bodies, local government representatives and disability groups.
Kevin Brennan MP tested his taxi hailing skills this week at Labour Party Conference in a football-themed game with Guide Dogs. While trying to get a taxi to take guide dog owner Jacqueline to her local football match, the MP for Cardiff West heard about the real problems assistance dog owners face when being illegally refused by taxis and minicabs. Kevin is pictured with Jo Stevens MP after taking part in the game.
The Equality Act 2010 makes it illegal for a taxi or minicab driver to refuse to take an assistance dog or to charge extra for carrying it. However, Guide Dogs research found that 42% of assistance dog owners have been turned away by a taxi or minicab in a one-year period because of their dog. The research also uncovered that 38% of assistance dog owners have been asked to pay an extra fare for carrying their dog.
Kevin Brennan MP said, "People with sight problems often rely on taxi and minicab services to help get from place to place, while most taxi drivers are aware of the rights and needs of disabled passengers, many are not. This is why I'm supporting the campaign and want to raise awareness."
James White, Senior Campaigns Manager at Guide Dogs, commented: “Imagine you were turned away by a taxi driver for no reason. This happens to people living with sight loss with shocking regularity just because they are travelling with their guide dog. It’s not only illegal, it knocks people’s confidence and stops them doing the everyday things that most people take for granted – going to a café, meeting friends, going to the doctor’s or to their local football match.
We are urging the Government to require disability equality training for all drivers to help reduce the number of access refusals.”