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The grocery retailer has reversed its decision not to provide paid work to an neurodivergent person after initially saying he had to cease volunteering at the store where he had donated his time for an extended period.

In July, the young man's parent inquired whether her family member the individual could be offered a employment opportunity at the grocery store in the Manchester area, but her application was ultimately declined by the supermarket's headquarters.

Recently, rival chain Asda stated it wanted to offer Tom employment hours at its local branch.

Addressing 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 additional conversations with the company."

'We are investigating'

A official for Waitrose said: "We'd like to have Tom return, in a paying position, and are working closely from his family and the support organization to do so."

"We hope to welcome him again with us shortly."

"We are committed about supporting individuals into the workplace who might typically not be given a chance."

"Consequently, we warmly welcomed Tom and his helper into our local store to gain experience and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have policies in place to enable unpaid work, and are examining the circumstances in this case."

Tom's mother said she had been "overwhelmed" by how the public had reacted to her discussing her family's story.

The individual, who has challenges with communication, was praised for his commitment by managers.

"He contributed over 600 hours of his effort purely because he wanted to belong, contribute, and have an impact," commented his mum.

Tom's mother commended and appreciated employees at the Manchester branch for supporting him, adding: "They welcomed him and were absolutely brilliant."

"I believe he was just under the radar - everything was working well until it reached corporate level."

Both individuals have been endorsed by local official Andy Burnham.

He wrote on X that Tom had received "truly terrible" treatment and vowed to "support him to identify different opportunities that functions".

Burnham said the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "strongly urges all employers - such as Waitrose - to participate to our newly established Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Conversing with the parent, who shared information of the alternative position on media outlets, the elected official commented: "Well done for bringing attention because we need a major education initiative here."

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