Waitrose implements job reversal regarding initially declined autistic worker

Waitrose has reversed its ruling not to offer paid work to an individual with autism after initially saying he had to discontinue volunteering at the store where he had donated his time for four years.

Earlier this year, Tom's mother requested whether her adult child her son could be provided a position at the grocery store in Cheadle Hulme, but her proposal was eventually rejected by Waitrose head office.

On Thursday, rival chain Asda said it was interested in providing Tom paid shifts at its Manchester location.

Addressing the company's change of position, Tom's mother commented: "We are going to evaluate the situation and decide whether it is in Tom's best interests to resume working... and are having further discussions with Waitrose."

'Looking into the matter'

A representative for the supermarket chain commented: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in a paying position, and are seeking support from his relatives and the support organization to facilitate this."

"We hope to have him return with us in the near future."

"We care deeply about supporting workers into the workplace who might typically not be provided employment."

"As such, we enthusiastically received Tom and his helper into our Cheadle Hulme branch to learn the ropes and build his confidence."

"We have guidelines in place to facilitate unpaid work, and are reviewing the circumstances in Tom's situation."

Tom's mother said she had been "deeply moved" by how people had answered to her discussing her child's situation.

The young man, who has limited communication skills, was praised for his commitment by managers.

"He donated over 600 hours of his energy purely because he wanted to belong, be helpful, and make a difference," commented his mother.

Frances recognized and acknowledged employees at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for assisting him, noting: "They included him and were absolutely brilliant."

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

Tom and his mum have been supported by regional leader Andy Burnham.

He wrote on social media that Tom had received "deeply concerning" handling and vowed to "support him to identify different opportunities that functions".

The official declared the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "actively promotes every business - like Waitrose - to sign up to our recently launched Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Conversing with Tom's mother, who announced of Tom's Asda job offer on media outlets, the Labour mayor said: "Well done for raising awareness because we need a huge awareness campaign here."

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