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The supermarket has overturned its decision not to provide paid work to an neurodivergent person after originally indicating he had to discontinue working at the store where he had donated his time for four years.

Earlier this year, the young man's parent inquired whether her adult child Tom Boyd could be offered a position at the grocery store in Greater Manchester, but her application was finally turned down by the supermarket's headquarters.

This week, competing supermarket the grocery chain stated it sought to give Tom compensated work at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Reacting to Waitrose's U-turn, the parent stated: "We are going to evaluate the situation and determine whether it is in what's best for our son to resume working... and are having further discussions with the supermarket."

'We are investigating'

A official for the supermarket chain said: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in a paying position, and are working closely from his loved ones and the non-profit to make this happen."

"We expect to have him return with us shortly."

"We place great importance about supporting people into the employment who might otherwise not be provided employment."

"Therefore, we gladly accepted Tom and his helper into our local store to learn the ropes and develop his abilities."

"We have procedures in place to enable unpaid work, and are examining the situation in this instance."

Tom's mother explained she had been "profoundly affected" by how the public had responded to her sharing her son's experiences.

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

"He gave over 600 hours of his time solely because he desired community connection, contribute, and make a difference," said his mother.

Tom's mother praised and thanked employees at the Manchester branch for assisting him, adding: "They welcomed him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I believe he was just flying under the radar - everything was working well until it went to head office."

Tom and his mum have been supported by regional leader the public figure.

He stated on X that Tom had received "truly terrible" management and committed to "support him to identify different opportunities that functions".

The mayor said the local government body "would encourage each company - including Waitrose - to sign up to our recently launched diversity program".

Discussing with Tom's mother, who shared information of the alternative position on BBC Radio Manchester, the public figure commented: "Good on you for raising awareness because we must have a major education initiative here."

She consented to his offer to act as a spokesperson for the campaign.