🔗 Share this article

The supermarket has reversed its ruling not to grant a paying position to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to stop stacking shelves at the store where he had volunteered for four years.

In July, the young man's parent asked whether her adult child Tom Boyd could be provided a employment opportunity at the retail establishment in Cheadle Hulme, but her application was finally turned down by Waitrose head office.

On Thursday, competing supermarket Asda announced it wanted to offer Tom employment hours at its Manchester location.

Reacting to the company's change of position, Tom's mother said: "We are going to think about it and decide whether it is in what's best for our son to resume working... and are having additional conversations with the supermarket."

'Looking into the matter'

A official for Waitrose stated: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in compensated work, and are requesting assistance from his family and the non-profit to facilitate this."

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

"We place great importance about helping workers into the job market who might otherwise not be offered opportunities."

"Therefore, we enthusiastically received Tom and his helper into our Cheadle Hulme branch to gain experience and build his confidence."

"We have policies in place to facilitate community service, and are examining the circumstances in this case."

Tom's mother explained she had been "profoundly affected" by how people had answered to her talking about her child's situation.

Tom, who has specific communication needs, was recognized for his work ethic by store leadership.

"He contributed extensive time of his effort solely because he sought inclusion, make a difference, and make a difference," commented his mum.

The parent praised and thanked staff at the Manchester branch for supporting him, adding: "They made him part of the team and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I feel he was just flying under the radar - everything was working well until it reached corporate level."

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

He stated on online platforms that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" treatment and vowed to "help him to find another placement that functions".

The mayor said the local government body "actively promotes every business - like Waitrose - to participate to our recently launched diversity program".

Discussing with Tom's mother, who shared information of the alternative position on media outlets, the Labour mayor stated: "Good on you for raising awareness because we need a huge awareness campaign here."

She consented to his offer to serve as a representative for the initiative.