My autistic son was allowed to be Waitrose volunteer but not staff, mum says
Summary
A supermarket called Waitrose stopped an autistic man named Tom from volunteering after his mother asked if he could be paid for his work. Tom had been helping at the store in Greater Manchester since 2021 as part of his skills development but was told he couldn't continue due to not being able to perform the full role of a paid staff member. Waitrose is currently looking into the situation.Key Facts
- Tom Boyd is an autistic man who volunteered at a Waitrose store in Greater Manchester.
- He started volunteering there in 2021 as part of a work experience program.
- Tom worked unpaid, stacking shelves and tidying, which he enjoyed and found meaningful.
- His volunteering ended after his mother asked if he could have a few paid hours.
- The store's head office said he couldn't continue because he couldn't perform the full role.
- Waitrose stated they are investigating the matter and aim to be an inclusive employer.
- Volunteers do not have the same rights as employees, according to UK government guidelines.
- Tom's mother wishes for legal protections for volunteers similar to those for employees.
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