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The supermarket has overturned its determination not to provide paid work to an neurodivergent person after previously stating he had to discontinue volunteering at the store where he had donated his time for several years.

During the summer, Frances Boyd inquired whether her family member the individual could be given a employment opportunity at the grocery store in the Manchester area, but her request was finally turned down by Waitrose head office.

This week, alternative retailer the grocery chain announced it wanted to offer Tom compensated work at its local branch.

Addressing Waitrose's U-turn, Frances said: "We are going to think about it and determine whether it is in what's best for our son to return... and are having ongoing talks with the company."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A spokesman for the supermarket chain said: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in a paying position, and are seeking support from his loved ones and the charity to facilitate this."

"We hope to welcome him again with us very soon."

"We are committed about supporting individuals into the workplace who might otherwise not be offered opportunities."

"As such, we warmly welcomed Tom and his support worker into our local store to learn the ropes and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have policies in place to facilitate volunteering, and are reviewing the circumstances in this case."

Tom's mother stated she had been "overwhelmed" by how individuals had answered to her discussing her child's situation.

The individual, who has specific communication needs, was commended for his commitment by supervisors.

"He gave over 600 hours of his effort exclusively because he desired community connection, contribute, and have an impact," commented his mother.

Tom's mother recognized and acknowledged staff at the local supermarket for helping him, noting: "They welcomed him and were absolutely brilliant."

"I feel he was just under the radar - operations were proceeding normally until it became a headquarters matter."

Both individuals have been endorsed by Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham.

He wrote on social media that Tom had received "truly terrible" management and promised to "support him to secure alternative employment that works".

The mayor stated the regional organization "would encourage every business - like Waitrose - to participate to our recently launched Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Conversing with the parent, who announced of the employment opportunity on BBC Radio Manchester, the public figure commented: "Congratulations for raising awareness because we need a significant public information effort here."

She consented to his invitation to act as a spokesperson for the initiative.