Stratford-upon-Avon Symphony Orchestra Assistance Dog Policy
Date Effective: May 12, 2026
Policy Scope: All rehearsals, concerts, and social events.
1. Policy Statement
The Stratford-upon-Avon Symphony Orchestra welcomes registered assistance dogs to our concerts and rehearsals. We are committed to ensuring our activities are accessible to disabled individuals who rely on assistance dogs, in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.
Due to the nature of orchestral music (high noise levels), we require prior arrangement for assistance dogs attending rehearsals or concerts to ensure appropriate, safe seating is provided and that the dog is comfortable in that environment.
2. Definition of Assistance Dogs
For the purpose of this policy, an assistance dog is defined as a dog that has been trained to assist a person with a disability, particularly in relation to mobility, hearing, sight, or epilepsy/medical alerts.
Recognised assistance dogs include those trained by members of Assistance Dogs UK (ADUK) or owner-trained dogs that meet the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) standards.
• Note: All other dogs, including Therapy dogs or Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are not considered assistance dogs under this policy and are generally not permitted.
3. Prior Arrangement & Procedures
To ensure a safe environment:
• Contact Us: Please email: publicity@stratfordsymphony.org.uk at least 48 hours before the rehearsal or concert.
• Seating Arrangement: We will arrange seating that allows the handler space to manage the dog, typically on an end-of-row seat or in a designated area.
• Verification: While not strictly required by law, we appreciate notice if the dog is not wearing a formal ADUK identifier (harness/jacket).
4. Expectations for Assistance Dogs
While on the Orchestra’s premises, the owner/handler must ensure their dog:
• Wears a harness or identifier: Helps identify the dog as a working animal.
• Remains under control: The dog must be under the direct control of its handler at all times, usually on a lead.
• Remains quiet: The dog should sit or lie quietly on the floor next to the handler, not wandering freely, lunging, or barking.
• Is toilet trained: The owner is responsible for ensuring the dog is prepared and for cleaning up any waste immediately.
5. Welfare & Safety
Orchestras can produce loud, high-decibel noise, which can be detrimental to a dog’s hearing.
• Ear Protection: We highly recommend that handlers bring dog ear protection (e.g., ear muffs/muffs) for their working dog.
• Removal of Dog: If, at any time, an assistance dog is causing a disruption or the handler is unable to control it, or if the dog appears visibly distressed, the Stratford-upon-Avon Symphony Orchestra reserves the right to ask the handler to remove the dog from the room.
6. Access Refusal
Under the Equality Act 2010, assistance dogs cannot be refused access due to allergies, fear of dogs, or cultural objections. However, access may be refused if the dog behaves in a way that is not consistent with a trained assistance dog (e.g., showing aggression, constant barking).