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The supermarket has changed its ruling not to provide compensated employment to an autistic man after previously stating he had to discontinue volunteering at the location where he had worked unpaid for an extended period.

In July, Frances Boyd inquired whether her 28-year-old son Tom Boyd could be provided a job at the grocery store in Greater Manchester, but her application was ultimately declined by the company's corporate office.

Recently, competing supermarket the grocery chain said it sought to give Tom employment hours at its local branch.

Addressing Waitrose's U-turn, the parent stated: "We are going to think about it and determine whether it is in Tom's best interests to return... and are having additional conversations with the supermarket."

'We are investigating'

A official for Waitrose commented: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in compensated work, and are working closely from his loved ones and the non-profit to do so."

"We anticipate to have him return with us very soon."

"We are committed about helping individuals into the employment who might usually not be provided employment."

"As such, we warmly welcomed Tom and his support worker into our Manchester location to gain experience and enhance his self-assurance."

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

Tom's mother said she had been "overwhelmed" by how the public had answered to her sharing her son's experiences.

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

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

Tom's mother recognized and acknowledged staff at the Manchester branch for helping him, stating: "They welcomed him and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I feel he was just not sufficiently noticed - everything was working well until it reached corporate level."

Both individuals have been supported by Greater Manchester mayor the public figure.

He stated on X that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" treatment and promised to "support him to find another placement that succeeds".

The mayor declared the regional organization "would encourage each company - like Waitrose - to participate to our brand new Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Discussing with the parent, who shared information of Tom's Asda job offer on BBC Radio Manchester, the public figure commented: "Congratulations for bringing attention because we need a huge awareness campaign here."

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