Burnley Taxi Firm Sacks Driver After Refusing Assistance Dog

On February 12, a Burnley taxi driver was dismissed after refusing to carry a passenger with an assistance dog, violating the Equality Act 2010. Victoria Morris, the passenger, had booked a ride with Apollo Taxis to travel from Burnley Manchester Road train station to her home. She was accompanied by her dog, Molly, an assistance dog she relies on for support. When the driver refused to transport her and sped off, Victoria was left stranded in freezing conditions, causing her considerable distress and physical pain.

The incident occurred when Victoria, aware of her rights under UK law, had recorded the interaction in case something went wrong. The Equality Act 2010 explicitly prohibits taxi drivers from refusing service to passengers with assistance dogs, except when the driver has a verified medical exemption. The law aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities are not discriminated against when using public transport, allowing them to travel freely and safely with their support animals. Read More