🔗 Share this article

The supermarket has changed its determination not to grant a paying position to an neurodivergent person after previously stating he had to stop working at the location where he had donated his time for four years.

During the summer, the young man's parent inquired whether her family member the individual could be provided a employment opportunity at the grocery store in the Manchester area, but her request was eventually rejected by the company's corporate office.

On Thursday, alternative retailer the grocery chain stated it wanted to offer Tom paid shifts at its Manchester location.

Addressing the company's change of position, Frances said: "We are going to evaluate the situation and decide whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to resume working... and are having additional conversations with the company."

'Looking into the matter'

A official for the retailer stated: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in a paying position, and are seeking support from his loved ones and the non-profit to make this happen."

"We hope to have him return with us shortly."

"We are committed about assisting individuals into the workplace who might typically not be given a chance."

"As such, we warmly welcomed Tom and his support worker into our Cheadle Hulme branch to learn the ropes and build his confidence."

"We have guidelines in place to facilitate unpaid work, and are examining what's happened in this instance."

Tom's mother stated she had been "overwhelmed" by how people had reacted to her sharing her family's story.

Tom, who has challenges with communication, was recognized for his commitment by managers.

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

Tom's mother recognized and acknowledged employees at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for assisting him, adding: "They made him part of the team and were exceptionally supportive."

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

The family have been backed by local official the public figure.

He wrote on social media that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" handling and promised to "support him to find another placement that functions".

Burnham stated the regional organization "would encourage each company - such as Waitrose - to participate to our recently launched diversity program".

Speaking with the parent, who shared information of the alternative position on media outlets, the elected official commented: "Well done for raising awareness because we must have a huge awareness campaign here."

She consented to his proposal to act as a spokesperson for the program.