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The grocery retailer has changed its decision not to offer compensated employment to an neurodivergent person after previously stating he had to cease working at the branch where he had volunteered for several years.

Earlier this year, the young man's parent asked whether her family member her son could be offered a position at the grocery store in Greater Manchester, but her request was ultimately declined by the company's corporate office.

This week, competing supermarket the grocery chain announced it sought to give Tom employment hours at its local branch.

Responding to the supermarket's reversal, Frances commented: "We are going to think about it and determine whether it is in Tom's best interests to return... and are having ongoing talks with the company."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A representative for Waitrose stated: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in a paying position, and are working closely from his relatives and the support organization to do so."

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

"We care deeply about helping individuals into the employment who might typically not be given a chance."

"Therefore, we warmly welcomed Tom and his helper into our Manchester location to gain experience and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have guidelines in place to facilitate volunteering, and are examining what's happened in Tom's situation."

The parent said she had been "profoundly affected" by how people had reacted to her talking about her child's situation.

The young man, who has specific communication needs, was recognized for his commitment by store leadership.

"He donated more than six hundred hours of his effort purely because he desired community connection, make a difference, and have an impact," commented his mum.

The parent commended and appreciated team members at the local supermarket for assisting him, noting: "They included him and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I believe he was just under the radar - everything was working well until it became a headquarters matter."

Both individuals have been endorsed by local official Andy Burnham.

He posted on online platforms that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" handling and vowed to "support him to find another placement that works".

Burnham stated the local government body "would encourage every business - including Waitrose - to sign up to our recently launched Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Conversing with Tom's mother, who shared information of the employment opportunity on media outlets, the public figure said: "Good on you for bringing attention because we need a significant public information effort here."

She agreed to his invitation to become an advocate for the program.