August 25th 2024.
Meet Victoria Clark, a 25-year-old woman who has autism, hearing loss, and partial sight. Despite her disabilities, Victoria has a strong desire to work and contribute to society. She has sent out hundreds of job applications in the hopes of finding a job that she would love and excel at.
One of these job applications was for a waiting job at a Toby Carvery branch in Billingham, County Durham. However, Victoria's dream of working at this restaurant was shattered when she was refused an interview after the manager realized she had disabilities.
Victoria had arrived at the restaurant with her job coach, Heidi Smith. She was expecting to be interviewed for a role that involved clearing tables and working at the tills. However, the interview never took place. According to Victoria, the interviewer gave her and Heidi an "awful look" when she saw them together. The manager then proceeded to tell them that the interview would not be possible because of Victoria's disabilities.
Feeling disappointed and angry, Victoria and Heidi left the restaurant. This experience has greatly affected Victoria's confidence, as noted by Heidi, who runs Learning Abilities CIC, an organization that works with adults with learning disabilities.
In an open letter addressed to Toby Carvery, Heidi expressed her disgust at the discriminatory treatment that Victoria received during her job interview. She emphasized that Victoria is a determined individual who has sent out hundreds of job applications in her pursuit of employment.
Heidi detailed the events that took place during the interview, highlighting the manager's lack of interest in learning about Victoria's disabilities and how they could affect her role. She also mentioned that Victoria is more than capable of performing the duties required for the waiting job.
Heidi stressed the need for organizations like Toby Carvery to improve job access for disabled individuals. She called for an apology from the restaurant and hoped that this incident would serve as a lesson for them to be more inclusive in their hiring practices.
A spokesperson for Toby Carvery responded to the complaint, stating that the restaurant takes pride in being an inclusive employer. They also mentioned that they have received the complaint and are taking it seriously. They assured that they will fully investigate the matter and provide equal employment opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their disabilities.
In conclusion, Victoria's experience at Toby Carvery has highlighted the need for more awareness and inclusion in the workplace for people with disabilities. It is essential for organizations to provide equal opportunities for all individuals, and to not let their disabilities hinder them from pursuing their dreams.
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