'Helps me focus' | Bailiff loses bid to bring emotional support dog to work

A former bailiff has lost a legal case after arguing that her emotional support dog should have been allowed to accompany her during work. 

The tribunal, held in Manchester, found that the Ministry of Justice had acted reasonably when it denied Ms D Cullingford’s request, citing concerns about professionalism and safety.

Ms Cullingford, who had worked as a County Court bailiff in Leeds, claimed her miniature Yorkshire Terrier, Bella, helped manage her anxiety, which she said was linked to her recovery from cancer. She asked for her dog to accompany her while she made home visits during her work, stating that Bella's presence had been critical to her emotional well-being.

Bailiff's plea to bring dog to work

“I would like my dog to be my emotional support animal due to the level of past stress and trauma I have experienced,” the tribunal read from Cullingord. “My dog enables me to work more effectively and focus more easily. She helps me with my anxiety and is able to help me feel more calm and relaxed.