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The supermarket has reversed its ruling not to grant paid work to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to stop volunteering at the branch where he had worked unpaid for an extended period.

In July, Frances Boyd requested whether her adult child her son could be offered a job at the retail establishment in Cheadle Hulme, but her request was eventually rejected by the company's corporate office.

Recently, competing supermarket Asda stated it sought to give Tom paid shifts at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Reacting to the company's change of position, Frances commented: "We are going to evaluate the situation and determine whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to go back... and are having additional conversations with the supermarket."

'Looking into the matter'

A spokesman for Waitrose commented: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in compensated work, and are working closely from his loved ones and the support organization to facilitate this."

"We anticipate to see him back with us shortly."

"We care deeply about helping workers into the job market who might usually not be provided employment."

"Consequently, we enthusiastically received Tom and his support worker into our local store to learn the ropes and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have guidelines in place to facilitate community service, and are investigating the circumstances in Tom's situation."

The parent stated she had been "overwhelmed" by how individuals had answered to her talking about her child's situation.

Tom, who has specific communication needs, was recognized for his work ethic by supervisors.

"He contributed more than six hundred hours of his effort exclusively because he wanted to belong, be helpful, and have an impact," said his mum.

Tom's mother commended and appreciated employees at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for assisting him, stating: "They welcomed him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I feel he was just not sufficiently noticed - everything was working well until it went to head office."

Both individuals have been supported by Greater Manchester mayor the public figure.

He wrote on X that Tom had received "deeply concerning" treatment and committed to "assist him to secure alternative employment that succeeds".

The mayor stated the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "actively promotes each company - such as Waitrose - to participate to our newly established diversity program".

Discussing with the parent, who shared information of Tom's Asda job offer on BBC Radio Manchester, the public figure said: "Well done for raising awareness because we need a major education initiative here."

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