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Waitrose has changed its ruling not to grant compensated employment to an neurodivergent person after initially saying he had to discontinue volunteering at the store where he had donated his time for four years.

Earlier this year, the young man's parent inquired whether her 28-year-old son Tom Boyd could be given a employment opportunity at the grocery store in Cheadle Hulme, but her request was finally turned down by the supermarket's headquarters.

This week, rival chain the grocery chain announced it sought to give Tom paid shifts at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Responding to Waitrose's U-turn, Frances commented: "We are going to think about it and choose whether it is in Tom's best interests to go back... and are having ongoing talks with Waitrose."

'Looking into the matter'

A representative for the supermarket chain commented: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in compensated work, and are seeking support from his loved ones and the charity to facilitate this."

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

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

"Consequently, we enthusiastically received Tom and his support worker into our Cheadle Hulme branch to gain experience and build his confidence."

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

Frances explained she had been "overwhelmed" by how people had responded to her talking about her family's story.

The individual, who has limited communication skills, was commended for his work ethic by managers.

"He contributed extensive time of his energy exclusively because he desired community connection, contribute, and create value," stated his parent.

The parent recognized and acknowledged staff at the Manchester branch for supporting him, adding: "They included him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I believe he was just not sufficiently noticed - operations were proceeding normally until it reached corporate level."

Tom and his mum have been backed by local official the mayor.

He wrote on social media that Tom had received "truly terrible" treatment and promised to "support him to secure alternative employment that works".

The official said the local government body "actively promotes every business - such as Waitrose - to participate to our newly established inclusion initiative".

Discussing with the parent, who shared information of Tom's Asda job offer on local radio, the Labour mayor commented: "Well done for raising awareness because we must have a huge awareness campaign here."

She agreed to his invitation to serve as a representative for the initiative.