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The supermarket has changed its determination not to offer a paying position to an neurodivergent person after previously stating he had to stop working at the location where he had volunteered for an extended period.

Earlier this year, Frances Boyd inquired whether her 28-year-old son Tom Boyd could be offered a employment opportunity at the retail establishment in the Manchester area, but her request was eventually rejected by the company's corporate office.

This week, alternative retailer the grocery chain announced it was interested in providing Tom employment hours at its local branch.

Responding to the company's change of position, Frances stated: "We are going to evaluate the situation and decide whether it is in Tom's best interests to resume working... and are having ongoing talks with the company."

'Looking into the matter'

A official for Waitrose said: "We'd like to have Tom return, in compensated work, and are requesting assistance from his relatives and the support organization to facilitate this."

"We hope to see him back with us very soon."

"We are committed about supporting people into the workplace who might usually not be provided employment."

"Therefore, we warmly welcomed Tom and his helper into our Manchester location to gain experience and develop his abilities."

"We have guidelines in place to enable unpaid work, and are investigating the circumstances in Tom's situation."

Tom's mother stated she had been "overwhelmed" by how individuals had reacted to her talking about her child's situation.

Tom, who has specific communication needs, was commended for his work ethic by store leadership.

"He donated extensive time of his effort solely because he wanted to belong, make a difference, and have an impact," said his parent.

Tom's mother recognized and acknowledged staff at the Manchester branch for supporting him, adding: "They welcomed him and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I feel he was just flying under the radar - all was running smoothly until it reached corporate level."

Tom and his mum have been backed by regional leader Andy Burnham.

He wrote on X that Tom had received "truly terrible" handling and committed to "help him to identify different opportunities that works".

The official declared the regional organization "would encourage all employers - such as Waitrose - to register to our recently launched diversity program".

Conversing with the parent, who announced of Tom's Asda job offer on BBC Radio Manchester, the elected official said: "Well done for raising awareness because we require a huge awareness campaign here."

She agreed to his invitation to serve as a representative for the program.