Catherine Casserley acts for the claimant in Assistance Cat dispute

Catherine Casserley

Catherine Casserley acts for Ian Fenn in a ‘reasonable adjustments’ case against supermarket giant, Sainsbury’s.

Ian, recently diagnosed with autism, is supported by his assistance cat, Chloe, in everyday tasks. However, in March Ian and Chloe the cat visited the Clapham branch of Sainsburys where he was refused entry.

The Equality Act 2010 dictates that business owners have a duty to make reasonable adjustments so that someone who has a disability is not placed at a substantial disadvantage.

Catherine is instructed by Chris Fry who says, “Guide dogs are seen as being established as a reasonable aid to help disabled customers. But there’s never been anything specific in relation to anything other than a support dog in this country.”

This case hopes to provide clarity around assistance animals.