A kind-hearted manager is helping staff get through the cost-of-living crisis by stocking up a work cupboard full of Cup-a-Soups - though critics suggested they could just be paid more. Conor Edwards, who is assistant manager at a Travis Perkins branch proudly shared an image of the cupboard loaded with hot food supplies to LinkedIn.
The 28-year-old explained that the initiative was for employees of the builders' merchants who might be struggling with 'ever increasing' bills at home and that the stash would be available to all staff 'no questions asked'. The post, which showed pasta pots, soup and oats in the cupboard, has received more than 400 comments, as many users applauded Conor for being 'generous' and so considerate of his team's needs.
However, some were more critical and questioned why any staff members should be struggling financially - suggesting they could simply be paid more in their salary so they could afford to eat properly. Having previously used food banks and experienced poverty in his younger years, Conor is glad that his post has sparked a conversation about modern-day poverty - and pointed out that he had no control over pay.
Travis Perkins said it was proud to have colleagues like Conor and said recognised the 'extremely challenging times' and are planning to discuss a further support package for staff 'very soon'.
Conor, from Telford, Shropshire, said: "I am astounded by the sheer number of people responding to my LinkedIn post. Whether it be positive or negative comments, this small post has attracted the attention of thousands of people and has sparked the conversation that is not being had about modern-day food poverty.
"My reason for the post was to share a message with my small group of connections that there are alternative ways to support your teams when salary increases aren't a viable option. In my position as assistant manager, I have no influence over pay, but I can influence how I look after my own team.
"This was just a small gesture to my colleagues that there is a hot food option available to them if ever they are in need of it. I hope that none of my colleagues ever have to rely on this food, but regardless, it will be there for them to use with no questions asked."
Conor, who experienced poverty earlier in life, is proud that his post has inspired others to stock up on hot food in their offices. He said: "Having experienced food poverty myself in my youth and having to utilise food banks, I am incredibly thankful to those making a difference whether it be from home, work or out in their communities.
"I wouldn't be where I am now without the help and support I received as a teenager from Burton-on-Trent YMCA, they are truly an outstanding charity and I owe each and every staff member there a huge thank you. Their team helped shape my future for the better.
"I am deeply grateful to everyone who has taken the time to join the conversation and especially to those who have taken something away from it and gone on to do something similar within their own companies. Who would have thought that a LinkedIn post intended for the few would have reached so many? One good deed paves the way for another."
A Travis Perkins spokesperson said: "We recognise that cost of living pressures are having a real impact on society and our colleagues and their families, both financially and from a wellbeing perspective.
"We're proud to have colleagues like Conor in our business and his actions to support his team are a fantastic reflection of his personal values and his experiences in his youth. Our people are at the heart of our business and we offer a competitive pay and benefits package with our colleagues paid at or above the Real Living Wage, and also give access to discounts and offers on essential goods and services and wellbeing resources.
"We fully recognise we are living in extremely challenging times, which is why we will be talking to our colleagues very soon about a further support package."
