REGULAR customers at York’s iconic hardware store Barnitts have got used to employee Alex Wilkinson’s unique voiceovers.
The 18-year-old can recite word for word every one of the video adverts shown on small screens in the store’s garden department, where he works.
When customers ask for help he often voices the appropriate advert. “Everyone always says it wouldn’t matter if the televisions broke because they have me!” he said.
The teenager, who is autistic, has been working at the store for three years following a work placement from Archbishop Holgate’s School.
He was shy and unsure of himself around customers at first, says the store’s gardens manager, Geoff Ely. “But it is remarkable how much he has developed. He is so much more confident.”
Alex is now studying IT at York College but still spends two days a week at Barnitts on a voluntary work placement. “I really enjoy working here,” he says.
He’s a great example of what can be achieved if we give people a chance.
Barnitts have been working with Archbishop Holgate’s for some time, offering work placements to pupils with learning difficulties.
Wouldn’t it be great if more York businesses followed their example?
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