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The supermarket has reversed its decision not to offer paid work to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to cease working at the store where he had donated his time for an extended period.

Earlier this year, Tom's mother inquired whether her 28-year-old son Tom Boyd could be provided a employment opportunity at the retail establishment in Greater Manchester, but her proposal was eventually rejected by Waitrose head office.

Recently, rival chain Asda said it was interested in providing Tom paid shifts at its local branch.

Responding to the company's change of position, Tom's mother commented: "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 company."

'We are investigating'

A representative for Waitrose commented: "We'd like to have Tom return, in a paying position, and are working closely from his family and the non-profit to facilitate this."

"We hope to have him return with us in the near future."

"We place great importance about helping individuals into the job market who might usually not be offered opportunities."

"Therefore, we gladly accepted Tom and his care assistant into our Cheadle Hulme branch to gain experience and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have guidelines in place to facilitate volunteering, and are reviewing the circumstances in this instance."

Frances explained she had been "deeply moved" by how the public had answered to her talking about her son's experiences.

The individual, who has specific communication needs, was recognized for his commitment by supervisors.

"He gave more than six hundred hours of his time purely because he wanted to belong, make a difference, and create value," stated his mum.

The parent commended and appreciated employees at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for helping him, adding: "They welcomed 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 endorsed by Greater Manchester mayor the public figure.

He posted on online platforms that Tom had received "deeply concerning" treatment and promised to "support him to identify different opportunities that works".

The official declared the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "strongly urges all employers - like Waitrose - to participate to our brand new inclusion initiative".

Speaking with Tom's mother, who announced of Tom's Asda job offer on media outlets, the public figure commented: "Good on you for raising awareness because we need a major education initiative here."

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