Waitrose implements employment change of heart over rejected neurodivergent staff member

The supermarket has changed its determination not to provide compensated employment to an neurodivergent person after initially saying he had to cease stacking shelves at the branch where he had volunteered for four years.

Earlier this year, the young man's parent requested whether her adult child her son could be offered a employment opportunity at the supermarket in the Manchester area, but her application was finally turned down by Waitrose head office.

This week, alternative retailer Asda announced it was interested in providing Tom compensated work at its Manchester location.

Addressing Waitrose's U-turn, Tom's mother commented: "We are going to think about it and determine whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to resume working... and are having ongoing talks with Waitrose."

'We are investigating'

A spokesman for Waitrose commented: "We'd like to have Tom return, in a paying position, and are seeking support from his relatives and the support organization to do so."

"We anticipate to have him return with us very soon."

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

"Consequently, we enthusiastically received Tom and his support worker into our Cheadle Hulme branch to gain experience and build his confidence."

"We have policies in place to facilitate volunteering, and are investigating what's happened in Tom's situation."

Frances explained she had been "overwhelmed" by how people had responded to her discussing her child's situation.

The young man, who has challenges with communication, was commended for his commitment by managers.

"He gave extensive time of his effort purely because he sought inclusion, be helpful, and make a difference," stated his parent.

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

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

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

He stated on online platforms that Tom had received "deeply concerning" handling and committed to "assist him to find another placement that functions".

The official said the local government body "actively promotes all employers - like Waitrose - to register to our newly established Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Speaking with Frances, who shared information of the employment opportunity on BBC Radio Manchester, the public figure said: "Congratulations for highlighting the issue because we require a major education initiative here."

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