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The supermarket has reversed its ruling not to grant a paying position to an neurodivergent person after previously stating he had to cease working at the branch where he had volunteered for an extended period.

In July, Tom's mother inquired whether her 28-year-old son the individual could be given a job at the grocery store in Greater Manchester, but her proposal was finally turned down by Waitrose head office.

Recently, rival chain Asda stated it was interested in providing Tom compensated work at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Reacting to the supermarket's reversal, the parent said: "We are going to evaluate the situation and determine whether it is in Tom's best interests to return... and are having ongoing talks with Waitrose."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A representative for the supermarket chain stated: "We'd like to have Tom return, in a paying position, and are seeking support from his loved ones and the charity to make this happen."

"We expect to have him return with us in the near future."

"We are committed about helping people into the employment who might usually not be offered opportunities."

"As such, we gladly accepted Tom and his support worker into our Manchester location to learn the ropes and build his confidence."

"We have procedures in place to facilitate community service, and are reviewing what's happened in this case."

The parent stated she had been "profoundly affected" by how individuals had reacted to her sharing her son's experiences.

The young man, who has specific communication needs, was recognized for his work ethic by store leadership.

"He donated more than six hundred hours of his effort solely because he desired community connection, contribute, and have an impact," commented his mum.

Tom's mother commended and appreciated staff at the local supermarket for assisting him, adding: "They included him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I feel he was just flying under the radar - all was running smoothly until it reached corporate level."

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

He wrote on social media that Tom had received "truly terrible" management and vowed to "assist him to find another placement that succeeds".

The mayor declared the regional organization "strongly urges all employers - including Waitrose - to register to our newly established diversity program".

Speaking with Tom's mother, who shared information of the alternative position on media outlets, the public figure said: "Good on you for highlighting the issue because we need a major education initiative here."

She consented to his invitation to serve as a representative for the campaign.