The supermarket chain executes employment U-turn concerning rejected neurodivergent worker

The supermarket has reversed its determination not to grant compensated employment to an neurodivergent person after initially saying he had to stop working at the branch where he had worked unpaid for four years.

During the summer, Tom's mother inquired whether her 28-year-old son Tom Boyd could be given a employment opportunity at the supermarket in Cheadle Hulme, but her request was eventually rejected by the company's corporate office.

This week, rival chain the grocery chain said it sought to give Tom compensated work at its Manchester location.

Addressing Waitrose's U-turn, the parent commented: "We are going to think about it and determine whether it is in Tom's best interests to go back... and are having additional conversations with the supermarket."

'Looking into the matter'

A representative for the supermarket chain said: "We'd like to have Tom return, in paid employment, and are requesting assistance from his relatives and the non-profit to facilitate this."

"We expect to welcome him again with us shortly."

"We are committed about helping workers into the job market who might otherwise not be provided employment."

"As such, we gladly accepted Tom and his helper into our Manchester location to gain experience and develop his abilities."

"We have guidelines in place to enable community service, and are reviewing the circumstances in this instance."

Tom's mother stated she had been "deeply moved" by how people had answered to her sharing her son's experiences.

Tom, who has challenges with communication, was recognized for his work ethic by supervisors.

"He contributed more than six hundred hours of his energy solely because he sought inclusion, be helpful, and make a difference," commented his parent.

Tom's mother recognized and acknowledged team members at the Manchester branch for helping him, stating: "They made him part of the team and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I think he was just flying under the radar - all was running smoothly until it went to head office."

Both individuals have been supported by regional leader the public figure.

He posted on social media that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" handling and promised to "assist him to secure alternative employment that works".

The mayor declared the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "would encourage each company - such as Waitrose - to register to our brand new Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Speaking with the parent, who announced of Tom's Asda job offer on local radio, the public figure stated: "Congratulations for highlighting the issue because we require a huge awareness campaign here."

She accepted his offer to act as a spokesperson for the initiative.