A determined worker from Stafford has been shortlisted from 9,000 nominations for the Sainsbury’s version of the Oscars.
Tim Tooley, age 43, who has Down’s Syndrome, bagged a work placement at the town centre store in October 2009 after impressing managers during a charity pitch he was making for the Oak Tree Rural Project, which offers training and support for adults with learning difficulties.
The plucky cafe worker, who has never let his condition get in the way of enjoying life and travel, was offered a part-time position in April this year.
And now he is one of just a handful of staff nationwide to be nominated for a Pride award at Sainsbury’s Annual Conference at the NEC in Birmingham on September 15.
Stafford Sainsbury’s manager, Tim Hyland, said: “Tim has, from the first day I met him, left a mark and he brings so much pleasure to us all. Over the past nine months Tim has become more and more an integral member of the team and his love of working shines through.” During his employment, Tim has continued to bring in money for Oak Tree - helping to raise £8,000 with a plant sale in May.
Tim’s unit manager, Julia Philpott, said: “From basic duties Tim quickly developed his skills and started to serve customers with their orders, cleaning and keeping the front of store clean and tidy. Customer feedback was great and Tim’s attention to his duties was first rate.” Tim’s sister, Fiona Tooley, said: “As a family we have to thank all those who have supported us and Tim - it has made such a difference to his life. Over the last six months we have seen his confidence and demeanour grow- he stands proud.”
