🔗 Share this article The supermarket chain implements job U-turn concerning initially declined neurodivergent worker Tom Boyd worked at his local Waitrose for several years on a unpaid basis before being initially turned down for compensated employment The grocery retailer has changed its decision not to offer a paying position to an individual with autism after initially saying he had to cease working at the store where he had volunteered for an extended period. In July, the young man's parent inquired whether her family member the individual could be provided a job at the retail establishment in the Manchester area, but her application was eventually rejected by Waitrose head office. On Thursday, alternative retailer Asda announced it was interested in providing Tom employment hours at its local branch. Responding to Waitrose's U-turn, Frances commented: "We are going to consider the offer and decide whether it is in Tom's best interests to return... and are having further discussions with the company." 'We are investigating' A official for the supermarket chain said: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in a paying position, and are seeking support from his relatives and the support organization to do so." "We expect to welcome him again with us shortly." "We place great importance about assisting people into the employment who might usually not be given a chance." "Therefore, we gladly accepted Tom and his support worker into our local store to learn the ropes and enhance his self-assurance." "We have policies in place to support unpaid work, and are reviewing the circumstances in Tom's situation." Tom's mother seeks to determine what is the optimal opportunity for her family member Frances stated she had been "deeply moved" by how individuals had reacted to her discussing her child's situation. Tom, who has challenges with communication, was recognized for his work ethic by supervisors. "He contributed over 600 hours of his time purely because he sought inclusion, contribute, and make a difference," stated his mum. Frances commended and appreciated employees at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for helping him, adding: "They welcomed him and were wonderfully accommodating." "I think he was just under the radar - operations were proceeding normally until it reached corporate level." Both individuals have been supported by Greater Manchester mayor the mayor. He posted on social media that Tom had received "truly terrible" handling and promised to "help him to secure alternative employment that functions". The official stated the local government body "would encourage each company - including Waitrose - to sign up to our newly established Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice". Conversing with the parent, who announced of the alternative position on BBC Radio Manchester, the public figure stated: "Well done for bringing attention because we need a major education initiative here." She consented to his proposal to serve as a representative for the program.