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Waitrose has reversed its decision not to offer a paying position to an neurodivergent person after initially saying he had to cease working at the branch where he had worked unpaid for four years.

Earlier this year, Tom's mother inquired whether her family member her son could be offered a position at the grocery store in the Manchester area, but her application was eventually rejected by the company's corporate office.

On Thursday, rival chain the grocery chain said it wanted to offer Tom compensated work at its Manchester location.

Addressing Waitrose's U-turn, Tom's mother stated: "We are going to think about it and decide whether it is in Tom's best interests to return... and are having further discussions with Waitrose."

'We are investigating'

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

"We anticipate to see him back with us in the near future."

"We care deeply about supporting individuals into the job market who might usually not be offered opportunities."

"As such, we warmly welcomed Tom and his support worker into our Manchester location to learn the ropes and build his confidence."

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

The parent stated she had been "overwhelmed" by how individuals had reacted to her sharing her family's story.

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

"He gave more than six hundred hours of his energy exclusively because he sought inclusion, contribute, and have an impact," commented his parent.

Frances recognized and acknowledged employees at the Manchester branch for helping him, noting: "They welcomed him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I feel he was just flying under the radar - all was running smoothly until it went to head office."

The family have been backed by Greater Manchester mayor the public figure.

He posted on online platforms that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" management and vowed to "support him to identify different opportunities that succeeds".

The mayor stated the local government body "strongly urges all employers - including Waitrose - to participate to our brand new diversity program".

Discussing with the parent, who broke the news of Tom's Asda job offer on BBC Radio Manchester, the Labour mayor said: "Well done for highlighting the issue because we require a major education initiative here."

She agreed to his offer to become an advocate for the campaign.