🔗 Share this article

The grocery retailer has changed its ruling not to offer paid work to an autistic man after initially saying he had to discontinue stacking shelves at the location where he had volunteered for several years.

Earlier this year, Tom's mother requested whether her family member her son could be provided a position at the retail establishment in the Manchester area, but her request was ultimately declined by the company's corporate office.

Recently, competing supermarket Asda said it sought to give Tom employment hours at its Manchester location.

Responding to Waitrose's U-turn, the parent commented: "We are going to think about it and determine whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to go back... and are having further discussions with the company."

'Looking into the matter'

A spokesman for Waitrose stated: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in compensated work, and are seeking support from his family and the support organization to make this happen."

"We hope to have him return with us very soon."

"We are committed about assisting workers into the employment who might usually not be given a chance."

"Therefore, we warmly welcomed Tom and his care assistant into our Manchester location to learn the ropes and develop his abilities."

"We have procedures in place to support unpaid work, and are reviewing the situation in this instance."

Tom's mother explained she had been "deeply moved" by how the public had reacted to her talking about her family's story.

Tom, who has specific communication needs, was commended for his commitment by store leadership.

"He contributed over 600 hours of his energy solely because he sought inclusion, contribute, and make a difference," stated his mother.

The parent recognized and acknowledged team members at the Manchester branch for assisting him, stating: "They included him and were absolutely brilliant."

"I feel he was just under the radar - all was running smoothly until it reached corporate level."

Tom and his mum have been backed by regional leader the mayor.

He posted on X that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" handling and committed to "assist him to find another placement that succeeds".

The official stated the regional organization "strongly urges every business - like Waitrose - to register to our newly established Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Speaking with Tom's mother, who shared information of the employment opportunity on media outlets, the Labour mayor commented: "Well done for highlighting the issue because we must have a major education initiative here."

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