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The supermarket has overturned its ruling not to offer compensated employment to an autistic man after previously stating he had to stop volunteering at the store where he had worked unpaid for an extended period.

In July, the young man's parent inquired whether her adult child the individual could be offered a position at the supermarket in Greater Manchester, but her proposal was ultimately declined by the supermarket's headquarters.

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

Addressing Waitrose's U-turn, Frances stated: "We are going to consider the offer and decide whether it is in what's best for our son to resume working... and are having additional conversations with the company."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A official for Waitrose commented: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in compensated work, and are requesting assistance from his family and the non-profit to do so."

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

"We are committed about assisting people into the job market who might otherwise not be provided employment."

"Therefore, we warmly welcomed Tom and his care assistant into our Manchester location to build skills and develop his abilities."

"We have procedures in place to support volunteering, and are investigating what's happened in Tom's situation."

Frances said she had been "deeply moved" by how individuals had responded to her discussing her son's experiences.

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

"He donated extensive time of his effort purely because he sought inclusion, make a difference, and create value," commented his mother.

Tom's mother praised and thanked employees at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for helping him, noting: "They welcomed him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I think he was just under the radar - all was running smoothly until it reached corporate level."

Both individuals have been backed by regional leader Andy Burnham.

He stated on social media that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" handling and promised to "help him to find another placement that succeeds".

Burnham said the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "would encourage all employers - such as Waitrose - to register to our newly established diversity program".

Conversing with Frances, who shared information of the employment opportunity on media outlets, the elected official stated: "Well done for bringing attention because we require a huge awareness campaign here."

She agreed to his invitation to serve as a representative for the initiative.