The Southend West MP nominated local legend Jill Allen-King to meet with Rishi Sunak MP on Wednesday evening at No.10 Downing Street as part of the Prime Minister’s ‘Community Champions’ scheme.
Since launching her petition to ensure the disability activist was not left without guide dog provision due to the imminent retirement of Jagger, her current companion of over a decade, Anna has been in conversation with Guide Dogs UK to see what can be done.
The latest development is that a full health check has been carried out on Jagger by the national charity, with Jill awaiting the news on whether Jagger can continue past his scheduled retirement date in June.
At the event, the Prime Minister had a chance to discuss with Jill and Anna the current challenges facing guide dog provision, of which there has been a significant shortage as a result of restrictions during the pandemic.
The lockdown in 2020 meant a pause on breeding and puppy training was difficult due to the closure of restaurants and other public spaces.
Anna said,
“There are countless community champions in Southend and Leigh – I could have easily flooded the PM’s office with them all!”
“However, I just had to put Jill forward to meet with the Prime Minister as part of my campaign for either Jagger to continue, or for a new guide dog to be made available as a priority to this amazing woman.”
“She is an amazing woman, and I am so glad she was able to attend this event to thank her for all that she has done for those living with visual impairments.”
Jill Allen-King said,
"I held on to his hand and told him there were a thousand blind people waiting for a guide dog and he really did seem shocked by that.”
"He said to Anna, my MP, 'let me know how I can help' and I'm sure she will let him know,"
