The supermarket chain implements employment U-turn over initially declined neurodivergent staff member

The grocery retailer has changed its determination not to grant a paying position to an autistic man after previously stating he had to stop working at the branch where he had worked unpaid for four years.

In July, the young man's parent inquired whether her 28-year-old son the individual could be given a employment opportunity at the supermarket in Cheadle Hulme, but her application was finally turned down by Waitrose head office.

Recently, rival chain Asda stated it was interested in providing Tom employment hours at its local branch.

Responding to the company's change of position, Frances said: "We are going to consider the offer and determine whether it is in Tom's best interests to return... and are having ongoing talks with Waitrose."

'We are investigating'

A official for Waitrose said: "We'd like to have Tom return, in compensated work, and are working closely from his loved ones and the charity to facilitate this."

"We anticipate to welcome him again with us shortly."

"We care deeply about supporting individuals into the employment who might typically not be given a chance."

"As such, we enthusiastically received Tom and his helper into our Manchester location to learn the ropes and enhance his self-assurance."

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

The parent explained she had been "profoundly affected" by how people had answered to her sharing her child's situation.

The individual, who has challenges with communication, was commended for his commitment by supervisors.

"He gave over 600 hours of his energy exclusively because he sought inclusion, contribute, and create value," commented his mother.

Frances commended and appreciated employees at the local supermarket for supporting him, stating: "They welcomed him and were absolutely brilliant."

"I feel he was just not sufficiently noticed - operations were proceeding normally until it went to head office."

Both individuals have been endorsed by regional leader the mayor.

He wrote on online platforms that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" handling and vowed to "assist him to find another placement that works".

The official declared the local government body "strongly urges all employers - such as Waitrose - to participate to our newly established diversity program".

Speaking with Frances, who broke the news of Tom's Asda job offer on local radio, the public figure commented: "Congratulations for raising awareness because we need a significant public information effort here."

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