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Waitrose has reversed its decision not to offer compensated employment to an neurodivergent person after initially saying he had to cease volunteering at the branch where he had volunteered for four years.

Earlier this year, Tom's mother inquired whether her 28-year-old son the individual could be provided a position at the grocery store in Cheadle Hulme, but her request was ultimately declined by Waitrose head office.

This week, rival chain Asda announced it sought to give Tom compensated work at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Responding to the company's change of position, the parent said: "We are going to consider the offer and decide whether it is in what's best for our son to go back... and are having additional conversations with Waitrose."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A spokesman for the retailer commented: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in compensated work, and are working closely from his family and the non-profit to facilitate this."

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

"We care deeply about assisting individuals into the workplace who might usually not be offered opportunities."

"Therefore, we enthusiastically received Tom and his care assistant into our Manchester location to gain experience and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have procedures in place to support community service, and are examining the situation in this case."

Frances explained she had been "overwhelmed" by how individuals had responded to her talking about her son's experiences.

The individual, who has limited communication skills, was commended for his dedication by store leadership.

"He gave more than six hundred hours of his energy exclusively because he desired community connection, make a difference, and have an impact," commented his mum.

Frances commended and appreciated team members at the Manchester branch for supporting him, stating: "They welcomed him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I believe he was just not sufficiently noticed - operations were proceeding normally until it reached corporate level."

Both individuals have been supported by regional leader the public figure.

He stated on X that Tom had received "truly terrible" management and vowed to "help him to identify different opportunities that functions".

The mayor stated the regional organization "strongly urges every business - like Waitrose - to sign up to our brand new Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Conversing with Tom's mother, who announced of Tom's Asda job offer on local radio, the elected official said: "Congratulations for raising awareness because we require a significant public information effort here."

She consented to his proposal to serve as a representative for the initiative.