London Hospital Refuses Entry to Blind Mother and Ailing Infant

A woman claims that she was denied entry to a hospital in west London because she had a guide dog with her. Dr Amy Kavanagh, who is blind, went to West Middlesex University Hospital with her sick baby when a security guard continuously refused them access. Dr Kavanagh and her partner insisted that the dog, Ava, was a guide dog and therefore legally allowed to enter. Eventually, other patients and staff intervened and supported them, urging the security guard to let them in. Dr Kavanagh said that this was not the first time she had faced discrimination due to her guide dog. She called on the NHS to ensure that security staff receive proper training to understand the rights of assistance dogs. A spokesperson for the hospital trust expressed their regret over the incident and promised to conduct an internal review and take appropriate action. Guide Dogs UK reported that many guide dog owners face discrimination and are turned away from businesses or services.