RNIB Volunteer Campaigner Alex Wheen is campaigning to ensure taxis drivers in the Hertfordshire area have a greater awareness of sight loss and the law surrounding guide dogs in taxis, following a number of incidents where guide dogs have been refused.
Twice this year Alex has attempted to get a taxi when travelling with friends from the Letchworth Visually Impaired Tennis Group, only to have the group refused because one of them had a guide dog. Alex has submitted complaints to the licensing body, North Hertfordshire District Council and is keen to discuss a way forward that ensures such incidents are a thing of the past.
"From a small minority of drivers there is a clear misunderstanding of the licensing rules set by the local authority. Blind and partially sighted people in Hertfordshire, including guide dog users, shouldn't have to feel anxious about using taxis and shouldn't get left on the side of the road.
We cannot drive and frequently taxis are the only form of transport available due to the poor number of buses in this area. There are many different solutions we hope the Council will consider, such as highlighting the existing guidelines and visual awareness training for drivers."
We want to hear from you if you have also experienced problems in Hertfordshire with taxis refusing to take you because of your guide dog. Please contact RCO Emily Papaleo.