On 25^th August 2016, Jigsaw held one of its regular monthly meetings for members at the Wellington pub in Bury. As has been widely reported in both local media and social media our group were refused food despite the fact that other customers within the pub at the time and new customers entering the pub were served food. This appeared to be clear discrimination against our group of young disabled people. Having reported this the following day to Greene King who operate the Wellington pub, Jigsaw has been awaiting the outcome of their internal investigation into the incident, before commenting further. Of course, in the interim the Wellington pub has been removed from our list of possible venues.

Having now had detailed feedback from Greene King and an unreserved apology we are now in a position to make a fully informed response. We are satisfied that Greene King have conducted a thorough investigation into the incident and have kept us informed at each stage. Whilst the behaviour of the staff in question on the night is inexcusable and discrimination of this nature should not be tolerated, we are confident that appropriate action has been taken by Greene King and that this appears to have been an isolated incident. Prior to our monthly meeting on 25^th August, Jigsaw has used the Wellington pub on a number of occasions without such problems.  In an effort to repair the relationship and to give reassurance to our members that they will receive a welcome and service which they should expect, Greene King have offered to host Jigsaw members at the Wellington pub for a complimentary event. Understandably, the incident in question was quite distressing for many of the members present on the evening, and as a member-led organisation we will put forward the offer to our members and let them decide if they would like to take advantage of the offer and perhaps reinstate the Wellington pub as one of their chosen venues.

Jigsaw is heartened by the support of local people on social media and in the press and would like to thank everyone for their support. Additionally, Jigsaw appreciates the offers of support from other local publicans and venues who say they would be delighted to host our group and to ensure that we are treated properly and with respect.