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Waitrose has changed its determination not to grant a paying position to an neurodivergent person after originally indicating he had to stop stacking shelves at the location where he had worked unpaid for four years.

In July, Frances Boyd inquired whether her adult child Tom Boyd could be offered a position at the supermarket in Greater Manchester, but her application was finally turned down by Waitrose head office.

Recently, alternative retailer the grocery chain stated it wanted to offer Tom compensated work at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Addressing the company's change of position, the parent commented: "We are going to think about it and decide whether it is in what's best for our son to go back... and are having ongoing talks with Waitrose."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A spokesman for the retailer stated: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in paid employment, and are working closely from his family and the support organization to make this happen."

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

"We place great importance about helping workers into the employment who might usually not be offered opportunities."

"As such, we enthusiastically received Tom and his helper into our Manchester location to build skills and build his confidence."

"We have procedures in place to enable community service, and are investigating what's happened in Tom's situation."

The parent explained she had been "deeply moved" by how the public had answered to her discussing her son's experiences.

The individual, who has limited communication skills, was recognized for his dedication by supervisors.

"He contributed extensive time of his energy purely because he wanted to belong, make a difference, and create value," commented his mother.

Tom's mother praised and thanked team members at the Manchester branch for supporting him, stating: "They welcomed him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I think he was just flying under the radar - operations were proceeding normally until it reached corporate level."

Tom and his mum have been endorsed by local official Andy Burnham.

He stated on X that Tom had received "truly terrible" management and committed to "assist him to secure alternative employment that works".

The official stated the local government body "actively promotes each company - including Waitrose - to sign up to our newly established inclusion initiative".

Speaking with Tom's mother, who announced of the employment opportunity on local radio, the Labour mayor said: "Good on you for raising awareness because we must have a significant public information effort here."

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