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Waitrose has overturned its ruling not to provide paid work to an individual with autism after originally indicating he had to discontinue working at the branch where he had volunteered for an extended period.

Earlier this year, Tom's mother asked whether her 28-year-old son her son could be offered a job at the grocery store in the Manchester area, but her proposal was finally turned down by Waitrose head office.

On Thursday, alternative retailer the grocery chain stated it was interested in providing Tom compensated work at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Responding to the supermarket's reversal, the parent said: "We are going to consider the offer and determine whether it is in Tom's best interests to return... and are having further discussions with the company."

'We are investigating'

A representative for the retailer commented: "We'd like to have Tom return, in paid employment, and are working closely from his family and the support organization to do so."

"We hope to have him return with us very soon."

"We are committed about supporting individuals into the employment who might usually not be provided employment."

"Consequently, we gladly accepted Tom and his helper into our Cheadle Hulme branch to build skills and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have procedures in place to enable unpaid work, and are investigating the situation in this instance."

Frances stated she had been "overwhelmed" by how the public had reacted to her discussing her son's experiences.

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

"He gave extensive time of his energy solely because he desired community connection, be helpful, and have an impact," said his mother.

Frances recognized and acknowledged employees at the local supermarket for assisting him, noting: "They made him part of the team and were exceptionally supportive."

"I feel he was just not sufficiently noticed - all was running smoothly until it went to head office."

The family have been backed by Greater Manchester mayor the public figure.

He stated on X that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" management and vowed to "assist him to identify different opportunities that works".

Burnham said the regional organization "would encourage each company - including Waitrose - to sign up to our recently launched inclusion initiative".

Discussing with Frances, who broke the news of Tom's Asda job offer on media outlets, the Labour mayor stated: "Good on you for bringing attention because we must have a huge awareness campaign here."

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