🔗 Share this article

The supermarket has overturned its decision not to grant paid work to an neurodivergent person after originally indicating he had to stop working at the location where he had volunteered for an extended period.

In July, Tom's mother requested whether her 28-year-old son her son could be provided a employment opportunity at the supermarket in Cheadle Hulme, but her proposal was finally turned down by the company's corporate office.

This week, competing supermarket the grocery chain stated it sought to give Tom employment hours at its Manchester location.

Addressing the supermarket's reversal, the parent commented: "We are going to evaluate the situation and choose whether it is in what's best for our son to return... and are having additional conversations with the supermarket."

'Looking into the matter'

A spokesman for the retailer stated: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in paid employment, and are seeking support from his family and the support organization to make this happen."

"We anticipate to see him back with us in the near future."

"We are committed about supporting people into the job market who might typically not be given a chance."

"As such, we warmly welcomed Tom and his helper into our Manchester location to build skills and build his confidence."

"We have procedures in place to facilitate unpaid work, and are investigating the situation in this case."

The parent said she had been "profoundly affected" by how the public had reacted to her discussing her child's situation.

The young man, who has challenges with communication, was praised for his dedication by store leadership.

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

The parent commended and appreciated employees at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for assisting him, adding: "They welcomed him and were absolutely brilliant."

"I think he was just flying under the radar - everything was working well until it went to head office."

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

He stated on social media that Tom had received "deeply concerning" handling and committed to "help him to secure alternative employment that functions".

The mayor said the local government body "would encourage each company - like Waitrose - to participate to our brand new diversity program".

Speaking with Tom's mother, who broke the news of Tom's Asda job offer on media outlets, the Labour mayor commented: "Congratulations for bringing attention because we need a huge awareness campaign here."

She agreed to his invitation to become an advocate for the campaign.