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Waitrose has overturned its decision not to provide a paying position to an individual with autism after originally indicating he had to discontinue working at the location where he had worked unpaid for an extended period.

During the summer, the young man's parent requested whether her family member her son could be provided a job at the supermarket in Cheadle Hulme, but her application was ultimately declined by Waitrose head office.

This week, competing supermarket the grocery chain stated it was interested in providing Tom paid shifts at its Manchester location.

Responding to the supermarket's reversal, Frances commented: "We are going to evaluate the situation and choose whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to go back... and are having additional conversations with Waitrose."

'We are investigating'

A representative for Waitrose said: "We'd like to have Tom return, in a paying position, and are seeking support from his loved ones and the non-profit to facilitate this."

"We anticipate to see him back with us in the near future."

"We care deeply about assisting individuals into the employment who might usually not be given a chance."

"As such, we enthusiastically received Tom and his support worker into our local store to gain experience and build his confidence."

"We have guidelines in place to enable volunteering, and are investigating the situation in this instance."

The parent stated she had been "deeply moved" by how people had answered to her discussing her child's situation.

Tom, who has limited communication skills, was recognized for his dedication by store leadership.

"He contributed over 600 hours of his effort purely because he sought inclusion, contribute, and have an impact," said his parent.

The parent recognized and acknowledged team members at the Manchester branch for helping him, adding: "They included him and were absolutely brilliant."

"I think he was just flying under the radar - everything was working well until it went to head office."

Tom and his mum have been supported by Greater Manchester mayor the mayor.

He stated on online platforms that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" treatment and vowed to "support him to identify different opportunities that functions".

The official declared the regional organization "actively promotes all employers - like Waitrose - to register to our brand new diversity program".

Speaking with Tom's mother, who broke the news of Tom's Asda job offer on BBC Radio Manchester, the public figure stated: "Good on you for raising awareness because we require a significant public information effort here."

She accepted his invitation to serve as a representative for the program.