The supermarket chain executes job U-turn regarding initially declined neurodivergent staff member

Waitrose has overturned its decision not to grant paid work to an autistic man after previously stating he had to stop stacking shelves at the branch where he had donated his time for four years.

In July, Tom's mother inquired whether her 28-year-old son her son could be provided a position at the supermarket in Greater Manchester, but her proposal was finally turned down by the company's corporate office.

Recently, rival chain Asda said it sought to give Tom paid shifts at its Manchester location.

Addressing the supermarket's reversal, the parent said: "We are going to think about it and determine whether it is in Tom's best interests to resume working... and are having additional conversations with Waitrose."

'We are investigating'

A official for Waitrose said: "We'd like to have Tom return, in compensated work, and are working closely from his relatives and the non-profit to do so."

"We hope to welcome him again with us in the near future."

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

"As such, we enthusiastically received Tom and his support worker into our Manchester location to build skills and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have policies in place to support community service, and are reviewing what's happened in this instance."

The parent stated she had been "deeply moved" by how individuals had answered to her discussing her child's situation.

The individual, who has limited communication skills, was recognized for his dedication by managers.

"He gave over 600 hours of his effort exclusively because he wanted to belong, contribute, and make a difference," commented his parent.

The parent praised and thanked team members at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for helping him, adding: "They included him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I think he was just not sufficiently noticed - everything was working well until it went to head office."

The family have been endorsed by regional leader the public figure.

He posted on online platforms that Tom had received "deeply concerning" management and vowed to "help him to find another placement that works".

Burnham said the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "actively promotes each company - like Waitrose - to sign up to our newly established diversity program".

Speaking with Frances, who announced of Tom's Asda job offer on BBC Radio Manchester, the elected official commented: "Congratulations for highlighting the issue because we must have a huge awareness campaign here."

She accepted his invitation to serve as a representative for the initiative.