Waitrose has changed its decision not to provide a paying position to an neurodivergent person after previously stating he had to discontinue volunteering at the store where he had volunteered for several years.
In July, the young man's parent requested whether her 28-year-old son Tom Boyd could be offered a employment opportunity at the grocery store in Greater Manchester, but her application was ultimately declined by the company's corporate office.
This week, alternative retailer the grocery chain stated it sought to give Tom compensated work at its Cheadle Hulme store.
Addressing the company's change of position, Frances stated: "We are going to evaluate the situation and determine whether it is in Tom's best interests to resume working... and are having additional conversations with the supermarket."
A official for Waitrose said: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in paid employment, and are requesting assistance from his loved ones and the non-profit to facilitate this."
"We hope to have him return with us shortly."
"We care deeply about assisting workers into the job market who might usually not be offered opportunities."
"As such, we enthusiastically received Tom and his helper into our Manchester location to gain experience and enhance his self-assurance."
"We have procedures in place to enable community service, and are investigating the circumstances in Tom's situation."
The parent said she had been "deeply moved" by how the public had answered to her discussing her child's situation.
The individual, who has limited communication skills, was recognized for his dedication by managers.
"He contributed over 600 hours of his effort exclusively because he wanted to belong, contribute, and have an impact," stated his mum.
Frances recognized and acknowledged employees at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for helping him, stating: "They included him and were absolutely brilliant."
"I feel he was just flying under the radar - everything was working well until it became a headquarters matter."
The family have been backed by Greater Manchester mayor the mayor.
He wrote on social media that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" treatment and vowed to "help him to find another placement that works".
The official said the local government body "strongly urges every business - like Waitrose - to sign up to our recently launched Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".
Discussing with the parent, who shared information of Tom's Asda job offer on media outlets, the Labour mayor said: "Congratulations for raising awareness because we must have a significant public information effort here."
She consented to his proposal to become an advocate for the campaign.
