A mum was left furious after claiming her disabled son was forced to prove he could walk – to use a ride at Legoland.
Joanna Brett has since launched a petition calling for fairer inclusion after visiting the theme park last year.
She and her son Sebby had travelled to the popular attraction in Windsor, Berks., as a treat after his fourth operation within a 12-month period.
The five-year-old suffers from an undiagnosed medical condition which leaves him unable to walk even short distances without help – similar to cerebral palsy.
Lego-mad Sebby had been looking forward to the day out last September and to meeting his heroes.
But the trip turned sour when the family tried to board the ride Ninjago – and he was told he had to prove he could walk to get on.
Joanna, from Nailsworth, Glos., claims he was made to get up out of his wheelchair and walk for three steps holding just his mother’s hand.
She says he was then told to do it again after he had completed the first set – because staff were not satisfied.
Joanna said: “It was humiliating.
“I don’t agree with their three-steps rule, but they should have done this in private, at the start of the day so Sebby didn’t have to repeat it in front of other people.”
She has now launched a petition which she will be taking to the Government.
It demands that where new rides and facilities are designed, consideration should always be given to ensure accessibility for disabled people.
James Taylor, from disability equality charity, Scope, commented on the issue.
He said: “It’s appalling to hear that what was supposed to be a happy family day out ended up with a disabled child being publicly humiliated.
“Disabled children and their families want to enjoy trips out together like any other family, and shouldn’t be made to feel singled out or excluded.
“We’d urge all family attractions to work with their disabled customers to become as inclusive as possible, and put an end to upsetting ordeals like this.”
Siobhan Baillie, MP for Stroud, added: “When I met Sebby’s mum at one of my surgery appointments, I was immediately bowled over by her energy and dedication to stop other children having the same upsetting experience at leisure attractions.
“My own sister has a raft of stories about what she had to go through with my nephew who is disabled, so I fully understand what this family has gone through.
“I applaud and support their desire to make sure it doesn’t happen to others.
“There should be no discrimination of disabled children anywhere and I am pleased that I have been able to push this issue forward with Sebby’s family.”
A spokesman for Legoland Windsor said: “The health and safety of our guests is always our first priority and there are additional requirements in place for some of our rides and attractions.
“We are very sorry to the family for the distress and upset caused and our team have thoroughly looked into what happened.
“As this is now a legal matter we are unable to comment further.”
To sign Joanna’s petition, visit: bit.ly/3bjRftr
