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Waitrose has overturned its decision not to provide paid work to an neurodivergent person after previously stating he had to cease working at the branch where he had worked unpaid for an extended period.

In July, Tom's mother asked whether her family member the individual could be provided a position at the grocery store in the Manchester area, but her proposal was ultimately declined by the company's corporate office.

On Thursday, competing supermarket the grocery chain said it was interested in providing Tom paid shifts at its local branch.

Responding to Waitrose's U-turn, Tom's mother said: "We are going to think about it and choose whether it is in what's best for our son to go back... and are having ongoing talks with Waitrose."

'Looking into the matter'

A spokesman for the retailer commented: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in a paying position, and are requesting assistance from his loved ones and the non-profit to facilitate this."

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

"We care deeply about supporting people into the workplace who might usually not be provided employment."

"Therefore, we enthusiastically received Tom and his care assistant into our local store to gain experience and develop his abilities."

"We have policies in place to support community service, and are examining what's happened in this case."

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

Tom, who has challenges with communication, was praised for his dedication by store leadership.

"He gave extensive time of his time purely because he desired community connection, make a difference, and have an impact," said his mother.

Frances praised and thanked employees at the local supermarket for supporting him, noting: "They welcomed him and were absolutely brilliant."

"I think he was just not sufficiently noticed - everything was working well until it went to head office."

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

He posted on X that Tom had received "deeply concerning" treatment and committed to "assist him to find another placement that functions".

The official declared the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "actively promotes all employers - such as Waitrose - to sign up to our newly established inclusion initiative".

Discussing with Tom's mother, who announced of Tom's Asda job offer on local radio, the Labour mayor commented: "Congratulations for raising awareness because we need a huge awareness campaign here."

She agreed to his invitation to become an advocate for the program.