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The grocery retailer has reversed its determination not to grant compensated employment to an neurodivergent person after originally indicating he had to cease volunteering at the store where he had volunteered for an extended period.

During the summer, Frances Boyd requested whether her family member Tom Boyd could be offered a employment opportunity at the supermarket in the Manchester area, but her proposal was finally turned down by the supermarket's headquarters.

On Thursday, rival chain the grocery chain announced it wanted to offer Tom compensated work at its local branch.

Addressing the supermarket's reversal, the parent stated: "We are going to evaluate the situation and choose whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to return... and are having additional conversations with Waitrose."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A spokesman for the retailer said: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in compensated work, and are seeking support from his family and the support organization to facilitate this."

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

"We are committed about helping individuals into the employment who might otherwise not be offered opportunities."

"Consequently, we enthusiastically received Tom and his helper into our Manchester location to gain experience and develop his abilities."

"We have procedures in place to enable volunteering, and are investigating the circumstances in this case."

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

The individual, who has specific communication needs, was praised for his work ethic by supervisors.

"He gave extensive time of his effort purely because he wanted to belong, contribute, and create value," stated his parent.

The parent commended and appreciated employees at the Manchester branch for supporting him, noting: "They welcomed him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I feel he was just not sufficiently noticed - operations were proceeding normally until it went to head office."

The family have been backed by regional leader the public figure.

He wrote on X that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" management and committed to "help him to secure alternative employment that functions".

Burnham stated the local government body "would encourage each company - such as Waitrose - to participate to our newly established Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Speaking with Tom's mother, who broke the news of the alternative position on local radio, the elected official said: "Well done for raising awareness because we must have a major education initiative here."

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