🔗 Share this article The supermarket chain executes employment U-turn concerning initially declined autistic worker Tom Boyd worked at his local Waitrose for an extended period on a unpaid basis before being first refused for a paying job The grocery retailer has changed its ruling not to provide a paying position to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to cease volunteering at the store where he had worked unpaid for four years. Earlier this year, Tom's mother inquired whether her 28-year-old son the individual could be given a employment opportunity at the supermarket in Greater Manchester, but her request was ultimately declined by Waitrose head office. Recently, alternative retailer the grocery chain announced it wanted to offer Tom compensated work at its Cheadle Hulme store. Reacting to the company's change of position, the parent said: "We are going to evaluate the situation and choose whether it is in what's best for our son to go back... and are having ongoing talks with the company." 'Conducting an inquiry' A representative for the retailer stated: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in a paying position, and are seeking support from his family and the charity to facilitate this." "We expect to see him back with us very soon." "We place great importance about supporting individuals into the employment who might typically not be offered opportunities." "Therefore, we warmly welcomed Tom and his helper into our Manchester location to gain experience and develop his abilities." "We have policies in place to facilitate volunteering, and are examining the situation in this case." Tom's mother seeks to determine what is the optimal opportunity for her child Tom's mother said she had been "deeply moved" by how people had answered to her talking about her family's story. The individual, who has challenges with communication, was commended for his work ethic by supervisors. "He donated more than six hundred hours of his effort purely because he wanted to belong, be helpful, and have an impact," stated his parent. Tom's mother praised and thanked employees at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for supporting him, stating: "They included him and were exceptionally supportive." "I think he was just under the radar - operations were proceeding normally until it became a headquarters matter." The family have been backed by Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham. He stated on social media that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" handling and promised to "help him to find another placement that functions". The mayor said the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "strongly urges each company - such as Waitrose - to register to our newly established diversity program". Discussing with the parent, who broke the news of the employment opportunity on media outlets, the elected official stated: "Well done for highlighting the issue because we require a huge awareness campaign here." She consented to his proposal to become an advocate for the campaign.