🔗 Share this article

The supermarket has reversed its determination not to grant paid work to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to discontinue stacking shelves at the store where he had worked unpaid for four years.

Earlier this year, Tom's mother asked whether her family member her son could be provided a employment opportunity at the supermarket in the Manchester area, but her application was eventually rejected by Waitrose head office.

On Thursday, alternative retailer Asda stated it wanted to offer Tom employment hours at its local branch.

Reacting to Waitrose's U-turn, Frances commented: "We are going to think about it and decide whether it is in what's best for our son to go back... and are having further discussions with the supermarket."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A official for the supermarket chain said: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in paid employment, and are requesting assistance from his relatives and the charity to do so."

"We hope to welcome him again with us in the near future."

"We care deeply about supporting individuals into the job market who might typically not be given a chance."

"Therefore, we gladly accepted Tom and his support worker into our local store to gain experience and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have procedures in place to support community service, and are investigating the situation in this instance."

The parent stated she had been "deeply moved" by how individuals had responded to her discussing her child's situation.

Tom, who has challenges with communication, was recognized for his commitment by managers.

"He gave more than six hundred hours of his effort exclusively because he sought inclusion, contribute, and make a difference," said his mum.

The parent commended and appreciated employees at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for assisting him, stating: "They welcomed him and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I think he was just flying under the radar - operations were proceeding normally until it went to head office."

The family have been endorsed by regional leader Andy Burnham.

He posted on social media that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" treatment and promised to "assist him to secure alternative employment that works".

The mayor declared the local government body "strongly urges all employers - including Waitrose - to sign up to our recently launched diversity program".

Speaking with the parent, who broke the news of the employment opportunity on media outlets, the public figure said: "Good on you for highlighting the issue because we require a significant public information effort here."

She accepted his invitation to act as a spokesperson for the program.