🔗 Share this article

Waitrose has overturned its decision not to offer a paying position to an individual with autism after initially saying he had to stop working at the location where he had donated his time for four years.

Earlier this year, the young man's parent asked whether her 28-year-old son the individual could be provided a position at the supermarket in the Manchester area, but her request was ultimately declined by Waitrose head office.

Recently, rival chain Asda announced it wanted to offer Tom employment hours at its local branch.

Reacting to Waitrose's U-turn, Tom's mother stated: "We are going to consider the offer and determine whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to go back... and are having ongoing talks with Waitrose."

'Looking into the matter'

A spokesman for the supermarket chain said: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in compensated work, and are requesting assistance from his loved ones and the charity to facilitate this."

"We hope to welcome him again with us very soon."

"We are committed about supporting individuals into the workplace who might otherwise not be provided employment."

"Therefore, we gladly accepted Tom and his helper into our Cheadle Hulme branch to gain experience and develop his abilities."

"We have policies in place to facilitate volunteering, and are investigating what's happened in this instance."

Frances explained she had been "deeply moved" by how the public had answered to her discussing her family's story.

The young man, who has limited communication skills, was recognized for his dedication by managers.

"He donated extensive time of his energy exclusively because he sought inclusion, contribute, and have an impact," stated his parent.

Tom's mother recognized and acknowledged team members at the local supermarket for supporting him, adding: "They included him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I think he was just under the radar - everything was working well until it reached corporate level."

Tom and his mum have been supported by Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham.

He wrote on social media that Tom had received "truly terrible" treatment and promised to "assist him to secure alternative employment that functions".

The mayor stated the local government body "would encourage all employers - like Waitrose - to sign up to our brand new diversity program".

Speaking with Tom's mother, who shared information of Tom's Asda job offer on BBC Radio Manchester, the elected official commented: "Good on you for highlighting the issue because we must have a huge awareness campaign here."

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