The supermarket chain makes employment reversal concerning rejected neurodivergent worker

Tom Boyd stacked shelves at his local Waitrose for four years on a voluntary basis before being initially turned down for paid work
Tom Boyd volunteered at his local Waitrose for four years on a volunteer arrangement before being initially turned down for a paying job

The supermarket has changed its decision not to provide paid work to an autistic man after originally indicating he had to cease volunteering at the branch where he had donated his time for an extended period.

Earlier this year, the young man's parent asked whether her adult child the individual could be given a employment opportunity at the retail establishment in Greater Manchester, but her request was finally turned down by the supermarket's headquarters.

Recently, rival chain Asda announced it wanted to offer Tom paid shifts at its local branch.

Responding to the company's change of position, Tom's mother commented: "We are going to evaluate the situation and choose whether it is in what's best for our son to resume working... and are having ongoing talks with Waitrose."

'Looking into the matter'

A representative for the supermarket chain stated: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in a paying position, and are working closely from his family and the support organization to do so."

"We anticipate to see him back with us in the near future."

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

"Consequently, we warmly welcomed Tom and his helper into our Cheadle Hulme branch to gain experience and develop his abilities."

"We have procedures in place to facilitate community service, and are investigating the circumstances in Tom's situation."

Frances Boyd wants to discern what is the best offer for her son
The parent seeks to determine what is the optimal opportunity for her family member

Tom's mother explained she had been "overwhelmed" by how individuals had reacted to her sharing her child's situation.

The individual, who has limited communication skills, was praised for his commitment by managers.

"He gave extensive time of his time exclusively because he sought inclusion, be helpful, and make a difference," commented his mother.

Tom's mother commended and appreciated employees at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for supporting him, noting: "They made him part of the team and were exceptionally supportive."

"I think he was just flying under the radar - operations were proceeding normally until it went to head office."

Tom and his mum have been endorsed by local official the public figure.

He wrote on social media that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" treatment and vowed to "help him to identify different opportunities that succeeds".

The mayor said the local government body "actively promotes all employers - like Waitrose - to participate to our brand new Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Conversing with the parent, who broke the news of Tom's Asda job offer on media outlets, the public figure stated: "Good on you for bringing attention because we require a major education initiative here."

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

Valerie Hale
Valerie Hale

Technology enthusiast and business strategist with over a decade of experience in digital innovation.

November 2025 Blog Roll

October 2025 Blog Roll

September 2025 Blog Roll

August 2025 Blog Roll

July 2025 Blog Roll

June 2025 Blog Roll

Popular Post