Waitrose executes employment change of heart regarding initially declined autistic staff member

Tom Boyd stacked shelves at his local Waitrose for four years on a voluntary basis before being initially turned down for paid work
Tom Boyd stacked shelves at his neighborhood Waitrose for four years on a voluntary basis before being initially turned down for paid work

The supermarket has changed its decision not to grant paid work to an autistic man after previously stating he had to stop stacking shelves at the location where he had volunteered for four years.

In July, the young man's parent asked whether her adult child the individual could be provided a employment opportunity at the grocery store in Greater Manchester, but her request was ultimately declined by Waitrose head office.

Recently, competing supermarket Asda stated it sought to give Tom compensated work at its local branch.

Reacting to Waitrose's U-turn, Frances stated: "We are going to consider the offer and determine whether it is in what's best for our son to resume working... and are having ongoing talks with the supermarket."

'Looking into the matter'

A official for the supermarket chain said: "We'd like to have Tom return, in paid employment, and are requesting assistance from his family and the non-profit to make this happen."

"We anticipate to welcome him again with us shortly."

"We are committed about supporting workers into the workplace who might typically not be given a chance."

"Therefore, we warmly welcomed Tom and his helper into our Manchester location to learn the ropes and build his confidence."

"We have guidelines in place to enable unpaid work, and are reviewing the circumstances in this case."

Frances Boyd wants to discern what is the best offer for her son
Tom's mother seeks to determine what is the most suitable arrangement for her child

Frances stated she had been "profoundly affected" by how the public had reacted to her talking about her child's situation.

Tom, who has limited communication skills, was recognized for his work ethic by store leadership.

"He donated more than six hundred hours of his effort exclusively because he sought inclusion, make a difference, and have an impact," stated his mum.

Frances recognized and acknowledged staff at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for assisting him, adding: "They welcomed him and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I think he was just under the radar - all was running smoothly until it went to head office."

Both individuals have been backed by regional leader the mayor.

He wrote on online platforms that Tom had received "deeply concerning" treatment and committed to "support him to secure alternative employment that works".

The official declared the regional organization "strongly urges each company - such as Waitrose - to participate to our recently launched inclusion initiative".

Discussing with Frances, who shared information of Tom's Asda job offer on media outlets, the elected official said: "Good on you for bringing attention because we require a huge awareness campaign here."

She consented to his invitation to become an advocate for the campaign.

April Jones
April Jones

A passionate life coach and writer dedicated to empowering others through mindset transformation and holistic well-being practices.