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Example of best practice
Guide dogs praises Mumtaz restaurant for best practice
Staff at popular Bradford restaurant, Mumtaz, have been awarded a special certificate recognising the outstanding service they offer guide dog owners. The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association presented the restaurant with a special certificate, to thank Mumtaz for demonstrating Best Practice by welcoming guide dogs and their owners on to the premises in accordance with the Disability Discrimination Act 1995.
The presentation formed part of Guide Dogs’ “Access for All” campaign, which encourages restaurants and pubs to ensure guide dog owners enjoy equal rights and access. This follows a recent survey, commissioned by Guide Dogs, which found that one in eight restaurants still refuse to accept guide dog owners with their dog*.
Although the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 makes it illegal for service providers to refuse guide dog owners because of their dog, or to offer them a lower standard of service, not all restaurants are as welcoming as Mumtaz.
Stephen Kirk, operations director of The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association in Leeds, who presented the certificate, said:
“We are very impressed with the positive feedback we have had from many restaurants throughout the country. Mumtaz in Bradford really does offer a very warm and genuine welcome to guide dog owners. We would like to thank the management and all the staff for supporting our campaign and for enabling guide dog owners to enjoy a relaxing meal.”
Chris Baker, Mumtaz’ general manager, said:
“All our staff are trained to welcome guide dog owners and to make them feel as comfortable as possible during their visit. Guide dogs really are exceptionally well trained and groomed to the highest standards and do not cause any obstruction to any other guests or staff. We are delighted to accept the special certificate recognising our support for Guide Dogs.”
A special freephone hotline, on 08000 131717, has been recorded by actor Kevin Whately, also known as Sergeant Lewis in Inspector Morse, advising restaurateurs and publicans of their legal responsibilities under the Disability Discrimination Act and providing information about the special training guide dogs receive.
