Extremely disappointing and an awful experience
Extremely disappointing and discriminatory experience.
I attended Koko Thai with my assistance dog, who was clearly wearing her assistance dog jacket. Under the Equality Act 2010, assistance dogs are legally allowed to accompany their handlers in restaurants and other public places.
The staff member refused us entry and repeatedly stated that he “didn’t care about the law” and that it was “his restaurant, his rules.” When I tried to calmly explain that assistance dogs are legally permitted, I was told that no assistance dogs would be allowed inside – including guide dogs or other medical assistance dogs.
During the conversation I was also repeatedly called “honey,” which felt very patronising and unprofessional while trying to discuss a serious issue about disability access.
Assistance dogs are highly trained and legally protected. Refusing entry in this way is discrimination and extremely upsetting for people who rely on their assistance dogs for independence.
I hope the restaurant takes time to understand its legal responsibilities under the Equality Act and ensures staff are properly informed so that no one else is treated this way.
