Fury as guide dog refused shop entry

Craig Roberts and guide dog Bruce

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A BLIND man was “devastated and embarrassed” when his guide dog was refused entry into Chadderton Post Office.

As Craig Roberts walked in an employee shouted his dog Bruce had to be left outside. Even when Craig explained his dog was a guide dog, the employee wouldn’t budge. Only when other customers intervened the cashier reluctantly served him.

Craig (36), of Denton Lane, Chadderton, said: “I’ve been partially sighted from birth but got Bruce in September. I’m still getting used to him but I’d grown confident in getting out and about.

“This incident has really knocked my confidence. I was really embarrassed and angry he told me the dog couldn’t come in. I’m grateful the people in the shop stuck up for me - but they shouldn’t have had to do that.

“I was so angry I went straight to the library and lodged an official complaint with the Post Office. I also contacted Manchester Guide Dogs Association and they are supporting my complaint. I want a written apology from the Post Office and assurance this will never happen to me or any other guide dog user again.”

A spokesman for the Post Office said: “Post Office policy is to allow guide dogs and other assistance dogs into branches and we would like to apologise for any distress caused.”



UNDER the Equality Act 2010, people with disabilities have the same right to services supplied by shops, banks, hotels, libraries, pubs, taxis and restaurants as everyone else.

Service providers also have to make “reasonable adjustments” for guide dog and assistance dog owners.

Reasonable adjustments might mean offering extra help, and certainly includes allowing guide dogs and assistance dogs into all public places with their owners.