THE MP for Torfaen has championed a new charity scheme which aims to help reduce the likelihood of guide dog owners being turned away from shops and taxis.

Nick Thomas-Symonds is supporting Guide Dogs ‘Access All Areas’ initiative and met with owners who shared their experiences of being denied access due to their dogs.

According to law, guide dog owners are allowed the same access to shops, restaurants and taxis as people without a visual impairment.

But the Torfaen MP heard how three out of every four guide dog owners have been turned away from a taxi, business or service because of their dog.

“The Access All Areas campaign is doing a brilliant job of making areas more accessible for guide dog owners,” said Mr Thomas-Symonds.

“It was after I completed a blindfolded walk challenge organised by Guide Dogs Cymru around Pontypool last year that I gained a new appreciation of how vital it is that we consider the needs of the blind and partially sighted in all areas.”

The charity is calling for disability equality training, and for offenders to be properly punished under the law when they illegally discriminate against guide dog owners.

“Guide dog owners rely on their dogs to feel confident and supported,” said James White, senior advocacy manager for Guide Dogs Cymru.

“Being turned away by a business leaves people feeling angry, upset and embarrassed.

"It can rob people of their independence and can leave them unable to do everyday activities.”