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Waitrose has overturned its decision not to offer compensated employment to an neurodivergent person after previously stating he had to discontinue stacking shelves at the store where he had volunteered for several years.

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

On Thursday, rival chain the grocery chain announced it sought to give Tom paid shifts at its Manchester location.

Responding to Waitrose's U-turn, Tom's mother stated: "We are going to consider the offer and decide whether it is in what's best for our son to return... and are having additional conversations with the company."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A spokesman for the retailer commented: "We'd like to have Tom return, in paid employment, and are working closely from his relatives and the support organization to do so."

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

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

"Therefore, we warmly welcomed Tom and his support worker into our Manchester location to learn the ropes and build his confidence."

"We have policies in place to facilitate unpaid work, and are investigating what's happened in this case."

The parent stated she had been "deeply moved" by how the public had reacted to her talking about her family's story.

The young man, who has challenges with communication, was recognized for his commitment by supervisors.

"He contributed over 600 hours of his effort solely because he sought inclusion, be helpful, and make a difference," stated his parent.

Frances recognized and acknowledged team members at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for helping him, adding: "They made him part of the team and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I think he was just not sufficiently noticed - operations were proceeding normally until it became a headquarters matter."

Both individuals have been supported by local official the mayor.

He wrote on online platforms that Tom had received "deeply concerning" treatment and promised to "support him to find another placement that works".

The official said the local government body "would encourage all employers - including Waitrose - to participate to our brand new diversity program".

Speaking with Frances, who shared information of Tom's Asda job offer on media outlets, the elected official said: "Well done for highlighting the issue because we need a major education initiative here."

She accepted his proposal to act as a spokesperson for the initiative.