The supermarket chain makes employment reversal regarding initially declined autistic worker
Waitrose has changed its ruling not to offer paid work to an autistic man after originally indicating he had to stop working at the store where he had worked unpaid for an extended period.
During the summer, Tom's mother requested whether her 28-year-old son her son could be provided a position at the retail establishment in Greater Manchester, but her proposal was finally turned down by the supermarket's headquarters.
On Thursday, alternative retailer the grocery chain stated it wanted to offer Tom employment hours at its Manchester location.
Addressing the company's change of position, the parent stated: "We are going to evaluate the situation and decide whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to return... and are having further discussions with the company."
'Looking into the matter'
A official for Waitrose commented: "We'd like to have Tom return, in a paying position, and are working closely from his family and the support organization to do so."
"We expect to welcome him again with us shortly."
"We place great importance about supporting workers into the employment who might usually not be given a chance."
"Consequently, we gladly accepted Tom and his support worker into our Manchester location to gain experience and develop his abilities."
"We have guidelines in place to facilitate volunteering, and are reviewing the situation in this instance."
Frances explained she had been "overwhelmed" by how people had answered to her sharing her son's experiences.
Tom, who has limited communication skills, was praised for his work ethic by store leadership.
"He donated extensive time of his energy exclusively because he sought inclusion, contribute, and create value," commented his parent.
Tom's mother praised and thanked team members at the Manchester branch for supporting him, adding: "They included him and were wonderfully accommodating."
"I believe he was just flying under the radar - everything was working well until it went to head office."
Both individuals have been backed by regional leader the public figure.
He posted on online platforms that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" treatment and committed to "help him to identify different opportunities that works".
The official declared the local government body "strongly urges each company - like Waitrose - to register to our newly established Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".
Discussing with the parent, who broke the news of the employment opportunity on media outlets, the public figure commented: "Congratulations for highlighting the issue because we must have a huge awareness campaign here."
She consented to his proposal to serve as a representative for the program.