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Autism

Asda Offers Job to Autistic Volunteer Dropped by Waitrose

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Tom Boyd, a 28-year-old autistic volunteer, spent over 600 hours stacking shelves for free at Waitrose in Cheadle Hulme, Greater Manchester, over a period of four years. His mother, Laura Boyd, asked the supermarket to pay her son in recognition of his efforts, but was told he could not become an employee. The family's story sparked outrage, with Mayor Andy Burnham of Greater Manchester condemning Waitrose's "truly terrible" treatment. However, the family received a lifeline when Asda offered Tom two paid five-hour shifts a week, with the supermarket praising him as a "fantastic fit" and committing to be flexible with his needs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Tom Boyd, an autistic volunteer, spent over 600 hours stacking shelves for free at Waitrose in Cheadle Hulme, Greater Manchester, over a period of four years.
  • His mother, Laura Boyd, asked Waitrose to pay her son in recognition of his efforts, but was told he could not become an employee.
  • The family's story sparked outrage, with Mayor Andy Burnham of Greater Manchester condemning Waitrose's "truly terrible" treatment.
  • Asda offered Tom two paid five-hour shifts a week, praising him as a "fantastic fit" and committing to be flexible with his needs.
  • Waitrose has said it works with charities to provide work experience placements and has a history of making reasonable adjustments to help people succeed at work.
  • The supermarket is investigating Tom's case as a priority.
  • Tom will continue to work at Asda, which has a supported internship program and partnership with DFN Project Search, through which they have welcomed over 30 talented new colleagues into roles across their stores.

Statistics:

  • Tom Boyd spent over 600 hours stacking shelves for free at Waitrose.
  • Waitrose reusable bags policy generated over £2.5 million so far, savingWaitrose over £4 million by reducing the use of carrier bags.
  • 30 talented individuals have been welcomed into roles across Asda's stores through their supported internship program.
  • Waitrose serves approximately 5.7 million customers per week.

Sources:

  • BBC News: "Autistic volunteer Tom Boyd offered job by Asda after being dropped by Waitrose"
  • BBC Radio Manchester
  • Asda spokesman
  • Waitrose spokesman
  • Mayor Andy Burnham of Greater Manchester

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