This morning I had my first access refusal with @GuideDogAva

There is a local hipster bakery I’ve wanted to try, so Ava helped me find it. I was told I would be served outside because of the dog.

I firmly said she is a guide dog, Ava took me in & I just started ordering.

I basically refused to be refused. I ordered my baked goods & left. The member of staff then commented what a good dog Ava is

Such a shame as I would like to include this bakery on our morning walk, but I guess I’ll give my money to the lovely welcoming cafe next door instead

It’s such a shame to have experienced this when I was so looking forward to going to a new shop independently.

Luckily my forthright approach kicked in & worked, but not everyone has my personality & I’ll also have difficult days where I don’t have the energy to fight for access

The sad thing is, these experiences really put me off using small local businesses & opt for chains which are more aware or at least accountable.

If you're a small local business owner please learn access law so disabled people can spend their money with you.