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The grocery retailer has reversed its ruling not to grant paid work to an neurodivergent person after previously stating he had to stop working at the branch where he had volunteered for an extended period.

In July, the young man's parent requested whether her adult child her son could be given a employment opportunity at the grocery store in Cheadle Hulme, but her proposal was eventually rejected by Waitrose head office.

On Thursday, rival chain Asda announced it was interested in providing Tom paid shifts at its local branch.

Responding to the supermarket's reversal, Tom's mother said: "We are going to evaluate the situation and choose whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to go back... and are having further discussions with Waitrose."

'We are investigating'

A spokesman for the retailer stated: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in a paying position, and are seeking support from his relatives and the support organization to make this happen."

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

"We place great importance about supporting workers into the employment who might usually not be given a chance."

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

"We have guidelines in place to support community service, and are reviewing the situation in this case."

The parent stated she had been "deeply moved" by how individuals had responded to her discussing her child's situation.

Tom, who has specific communication needs, was commended for his commitment by supervisors.

"He donated over 600 hours of his energy solely because he sought inclusion, be helpful, and create value," said his parent.

Frances recognized and acknowledged team members at the Manchester branch for assisting him, adding: "They made him part of the team and were absolutely brilliant."

"I feel he was just not sufficiently noticed - all was running smoothly until it went to head office."

The family have been endorsed by regional leader the mayor.

He wrote on X that Tom had received "truly terrible" management and vowed to "help him to secure alternative employment that works".

The mayor said the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "strongly urges all employers - like Waitrose - to register to our newly established Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Conversing with Tom's mother, who shared information of the employment opportunity on local radio, the elected official stated: "Well done for bringing attention because we need a huge awareness campaign here."

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