In a story that has sparked widespread discussion about neurodiversity in the workplace, Waitrose has come under fire for dismissing an autistic volunteer after his mother asked if he could receive payment for his work.
The supermarket chain, known for its ethical stance, terminated 19-year-old Ben Smith's volunteering position at their Hale Barns branch. The situation unfolded when Ben's mother, Rachel, contacted the store to inquire about potential paid opportunities for her son, who had been volunteering for several months.
A Sudden Termination
Rather than engaging in dialogue about reasonable accommodations or potential paid roles, Waitrose management responded by immediately ending Ben's volunteering arrangement. The family received an email stating that due to the inquiry about payment, they could "no longer facilitate" Ben's placement.
"It felt like such a brutal response," Rachel Smith told reporters. "Ben loved his time at Waitrose - it gave him structure, purpose and was helping him develop vital life skills. We were simply exploring what opportunities might exist for him to progress."
Community Support and Rival Intervention
The story gained traction on social media, with many criticising Waitrose's handling of the situation. Disability advocates highlighted the importance of creating inclusive workplaces that support neurodiverse individuals.
In a surprising turn of events, rival supermarket Morrisons reached out to the family with a genuine job offer. The company has arranged for Ben to begin work at their Altrincham branch, complete with proper support and accommodations for his needs.
Broader Implications for Disability Employment
This case raises important questions about how major employers support volunteers with additional needs and facilitate their transition into paid employment. With approximately 22% of autistic adults in any form of employment, stories like Ben's highlight both the challenges and opportunities in creating truly inclusive workplaces.
Waitrose has since stated they are reviewing their volunteering policies, while disability charities continue to call for better understanding and support for neurodiverse individuals in the workforce.
